![Manal Gholoum](https://profiles-cardiff.imgix.net/attachments/10637?w=200&h=200&auto=format&crop=faces&fit=crop&q=90")
Overview
I am a PhD researcher in the School of Healthcare Sciences at Cardiff University and a physiotherapist with over 16 years of clinical experience in musculoskeletal, neurological and medical rehabilitation. I hold an MSc in Physiotherapy from Cardiff University and a postgraduate diploma in Diabetes Care and Management from the University of Dundee.
My doctoral research focuses on promoting physical activity among people living with type 2 diabetes and comorbidities, exploring barriers and enablers to engagement and developing practical, evidence-informed approaches to support patients and healthcare professionals.
My research interests include behaviour change, physical activity in chronic disease, multimorbidity, rehabilitation, and translating research into clinical practice.
Biography
I am currently a PhD researcher in the School of Healthcare Sciences at Cardiff University, having commenced my doctoral studies in October 2026. My research focuses on promoting physical activity among people living with type 2 diabetes and comorbidities, with particular emphasis on behavioural influences, patient engagement, and the development of evidence-informed interventions within healthcare settings.
Prior to commencing my PhD, I completed an MSc in Physiotherapy at Cardiff University in 2026. My master's research involved a systematic review of randomised controlled trials investigating the effectiveness of aquatic therapy in improving pain, physical function, and health-related quality of life among adults with overweight or obesity and knee osteoarthritis. This experience strengthened my interest in research methodology, critical appraisal, and evidence-based clinical practice.
Professionally, I have over 16 years of clinical experience as a physiotherapist in Kuwait, working across musculoskeletal, neurological, and medical rehabilitation. My clinical experience includes involvement in renal rehabilitation and multidisciplinary obesity management services, alongside contributions to health promotion and professional awareness initiatives.
In addition to my clinical qualifications, I am an American Council on Exercise (ACE) Certified Personal Trainer, reflecting my interest in physical activity, exercise prescription, and preventive healthcare.
Throughout my career, I have sought to integrate clinical expertise, academic knowledge, and research evidence to improve rehabilitation practice and patient outcomes. My current academic interests include physical activity promotion, behaviour change, diabetes management, rehabilitation, and the development of person-centred healthcare interventions.
