Kai-Yu Ho

Interim Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Physical Therapy
Expertise: Physical therapy, Rehabilitation, Biomechanics, Orthopedics, Imaging

Biography

Kai-Yu Ho is a physical therapist whose research primarily explores tissue loading, joint mechanics, and neuromuscular control in degenerative musculoskeletal conditions.

She particularly focuses on patellofemoral (kneecap) pain and tendinopathy (tendon conditions that cause pain and swellling) affecting the ankle and knee. For example, her research publications have focused on topics including the impact of heel height or weight-baring exercises on knee joints; the influence of stroke or other disease on the Achilles tendon; and measuring bone mineral density. 

An associate professor with UNLV's Department of Physical Therapy since 2013, Ho teaches courses covering topics such as orthopedic principles, diagnostic imaging, and clinical education.

Ho is an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association. She is also involved in the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy, and currently serves on the nominating committee of the academy's Imaging Special Interest Group.

Education

  • Fellowship in Higher Education Leadership (FHEL), American Physical Therapy Association
  • Ph.D., Biokinesiology, University of Southern California
  • Doctor of Physical Therapy, College of St. Scholastica
  • M.S., Physical Therapy, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan
  • B.S., Physical Therapy, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan

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Kai-Yu Ho In The News

Verywell Health
Walking is widely considered one of the best exercises you can do for your health. It’s beneficial for your heart, muscles, and joints, and it’s also free and accessible. But is walking alone enough exercise to keep the average person healthy and fit?
El Pais
Learn how to care for the invisible network of 4,000 tendons that supports your body and prevent it from aging; specialists explain why your muscles aren't the only thing you should train.
BuzzFeed
You’re probably familiar with many of the benefits of regular exercise when done properly. From building muscle to boosting your energy and even helping your brain function better, there’s no shortage of reasons to work up a sweat. But there’s another great benefit you might not think about as much: You could be improving your bone density through exercise, according to experts.
Huffington Post
You’re probably familiar with many of the benefits of regular exercise, when done properly. From building muscle to boosting your energy and even helping your brain function better, there’s no shortage of reasons to work up a sweat. But there’s another great benefit you might not think about as much: You could be improving your bone density through exercise, according to experts.

Articles Featuring Kai-Yu Ho

Spring flowers
Campus News | April 3, 2025

The students and faculty of UNLV are springing into headlines around the country.