Manali Akre
- makre at bournemouth dot ac dot uk
- Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Therapy
Biography
I am a Lecturer in Sport and Exercise Therapy at Bournemouth University and a doctoral researcher in Sport and Exercise Medicine at the University of Essex. With a strong academic and clinical foundation in physiotherapy, my work bridges the gap between rehabilitation science, neuroscience, and athletic performance.
I began my career in India, where I trained as a physiotherapist and later specialised in neurosciences during my Master’s degree. My early clinical experience spans a wide range of settings, including neurorehabilitation, musculoskeletal practice, and sports injury management, where I worked extensively with patients across the lifespan. This hands-on background continues to inform my research and teaching philosophy, ensuring a strong emphasis on evidence-based, patient-centred care.
My doctoral research focuses on brain neuroplasticity following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, with a particular interest in understanding corticospinal and neuromuscular adaptations after injury... My work contributes to advancing knowledge on how the central and peripheral nervous systems interact in recovery, with the aim of improving rehabilitation strategies and long-term outcomes for physically active individuals.
Alongside my research, I have developed a growing portfolio of peer-reviewed publications in areas such as neuromuscular function, sports injuries, and neurological rehabilitation. I have also presented my work at national and international conferences, reflecting my active engagement with the global research community.
At Bournemouth University, I am committed to delivering high-quality teaching that integrates clinical expertise with current research. I am passionate about mentoring students, fostering critical thinking, and preparing future practitioners for the evolving demands of sport and exercise therapy.
Keywords:
Sports and Exercise Medicine; Physiotherapy; Neurophysiology; Neuroplasticity; ACL Reconstruction; Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation; Neuromuscular Function; Sports Injury Prevention; Rehabilitation Science; Motor Control; Evidence-Based Practice; Exercise Therapy; Clinical Biomechanics; Neurological Rehabilitation; Athlete Recovery; Corticospinal Function; Spinal Reflexes; Sports Rehabilitation; Breathing exercise techniques; Research Methods in Health Sciences
moreJournal Articles
- Akre, M., 2026. Corticospinal and spinal neuromuscular function in physically active adults after unilateral primary anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Physical Therapy in Sport, 82.
- Akre, M., 2026. Intracortical inhibition, corticospinal excitability and voluntary activation in people with and without patellofemoral pain. Experimental Physiology, 111 (4), 2225-2235.
Conferences
- Akre, M., 2026. Corticospinal And Spinal Neuromuscular Function During Quadriceps Eccentrics And Isometrics After ACL-reconstruction: Case-control Preliminary Report: 1016. In: ACSM 26/05/2025 United state of America.
- Akre, M., 2026. No: 553 Intra-Tester, Between-Day, Test-Retest Reliability of Maximum Voluntary Efforts and Femoral Nerve Stimulation Variables During Vastus Medialis Eccentric and Isometric Muscle Actions in a Range-of-Motion Specific to Non-Contact Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury. In: Society of Indian Physiotherapists 24/01/2026 India.
Memberships
- Chartered Society of Physiotherapist, Member (2026-),
- Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), Physiotherapist (2023-2028),