Assoc. Prof. Dr. Silviya Filkova , Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov Medical University – Varna, Bulgaria Bulgaria.
Assoc. Prof. Silviya Ivanova Filkova is a distinguished academic and practitioner in the field of rehabilitation and public health. With a foundational degree in rehabilitation from Sofia and two Master’s degrees in Health Management and Wellness & SPA Therapy from Varna, she has continuously advanced her academic and professional qualifications. Since 2012, she has been a pivotal educator at the Medical University – Varna, teaching therapeutic massage and kinesitherapy. Her doctoral research focused on spinal deformity prevention in preschool children, aligning with her broader research interest in scoliosis, functional deformities, and health promotion. She has undergone specialized international training, contributed over 100 scholarly publications, and authored a monograph on spinal health in the modern lifestyle. Her academic work is matched by a strong presence in national and international scientific forums.
Profile
Google Scholar
🎓 Early Academic Pursuits
Assoc. Prof. Silviya Ivanova Filkova began her journey into the field of rehabilitation with a solid educational foundation. She graduated in 1992 with a degree in “Rehabilitator” from the esteemed Medical College “Y. Filaretova” in Sofia, Bulgaria. Her thirst for knowledge and dedication to professional development led her to pursue advanced degrees, earning a Master’s in “Health Management” in 2000 and a second Master’s in “Rehabilitation, Balneotherapy, Wellness, and SPA” in 2016, both from the Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” – Varna. These academic achievements marked the beginning of her lifelong commitment to advancing the fields of rehabilitation and public health.
💼 Professional Endeavors
Silviya Filkova began her professional career as a rehabilitator immediately after graduation in 1992, laying a strong foundation through hands-on clinical practice. Her transition into academia came in 2012 when she joined the “Rehabilitator” Department at the Medical College of the Medical University – Varna as an Assistant Professor. Since then, she has been instrumental in educating and mentoring students in therapeutic massage and kinesitherapy. Her dual engagement in both clinical and academic domains has made her a respected figure in rehabilitation sciences.
📚 Contributions and Research Focus
A defining moment in her academic career came in 2017 when she earned her PhD in “Public Health Management” after successfully defending her dissertation on “Prevention of Spinal Deformities in Preschool Children.” This study underscored her dedication to pediatric spinal health and laid the groundwork for her future research. She has continually expanded her expertise through specialized training in globally recognized scoliosis therapy methods, including SEAS (Scientific Exercises Approach to Scoliosis), Schroth BSPTS, and FITS (Functional Individual Therapy of Scoliosis). Her core research interests lie in spinal deformities, physical activity, and health promotion.
🏅 Accolades and Recognition
Assoc. Prof. Filkova’s dedication to her field is reflected in her prolific academic output and continued specialization. In 2023, she was awarded a specialty in “Public Health,” complementing her broader focus on healthcare improvement and prevention strategies. Her completion of international certifications under renowned instructors like Michele Romano and Dr. Manuel Rigo attests to her commitment to maintaining high professional standards. Her contributions have been recognized not only through academic promotions but also by the high regard in which she is held by her peers and students.
🌍 Impact and Influence
Her influence extends beyond the classroom and clinic through her active participation in scientific events, both nationally and internationally. With over 100 publications in Bulgarian and international scientific journals, Assoc. Prof. Filkova has contributed substantially to the literature on health and rehabilitation. Her work has enhanced understanding of modern lifestyle impacts on spinal health and shaped approaches to non-invasive treatments for scoliosis and other musculoskeletal disorders. She also authored a monograph titled “Modern Lifestyle and Functional Spinal Deformities”, which adds value to the academic and clinical discussions in this field.
🔬 Legacy in Scientific Development
Assoc. Prof. Filkova has become a prominent figure in fostering interdisciplinary approaches in rehabilitative health sciences. Her consistent involvement in continuing education, scholarly activities, and development of therapeutic techniques ensures that her legacy will include both scientific innovation and the nurturing of future professionals. Her work bridges traditional rehabilitation with modern methodologies, integrating scientific research into practical healthcare.
Publication
-
Title: Assessing the impact of prolonged sitting and poor posture on lower back pain: A photogrammetric and machine learning approach
Author(s): V. Markova, M. Markov, Z. Petrova, S. Filkova
Year: 2024
-
Title: Физическа активност при възрастните хора с остеопороза
Author(s): К. Моллова, М. Алберт, С. Филкова, Р. Джуркова
Year: 2017
✅ Conclusion
Assoc. Prof. Filkova’s career is a testament to the integration of clinical expertise, academic excellence, and continuous professional growth. Her impactful research on spinal deformities and preventive rehabilitation, coupled with her dedication to education and public health, has significantly shaped the rehabilitative sciences in Bulgaria and beyond. As she continues to innovate and inspire through research and teaching, her work promises lasting contributions to public health, especially in the areas of pediatric rehabilitation and health promotion. Her legacy lies not only in scientific advancement but also in the countless students and patients she has guided throughout her remarkable career.