Key Research Focus Areas
Rehabilitation
Within the laboratory, we are conducting several investigations involving novel therapeutic rehabilitation strategies to improve patient outcomes following surgery. These studies often include novel interventions involving devices to enhance recovery such as blood flow restriction therapy which has been observed (by our team and others) to preserve muscle mass and bone while accelerating return to activity. In addition, we are currently studying how nutritional interventions may also contribute to improving recovery and reducing inflammation following surgery.
Injury Prevention
Utilizing the systems in our laboratory such as motion capture, DEXA, tissue sampling, and other forms of screening, we are investigating how such measures can be paired with clinical data and patient injury histories to better evaluate risk for common injuries or post-operative complications in both athletic, and general population patients. In addition, we are utilizing the information gained in these studies to design new clinical screening tools and applications to better assess our patients.
Clinical Innovation
Within the lab, we are evaluating how new intra-operative procedures effect patient outcomes with regards to return to function by utilizing our lab for post-surgery follow-up evaluations involving every aspect of our available equipment. These innovative procedures range from new methods of pain management and infection prevention to improvement of surgical performance with the use of advanced robotics and virtual reality assisted surgery.
Human Performance
With the use of metabolic testing, strength testing, and biomechanical analysis, we are evaluating how new wearable devices, applications, training modalities, and nutritional interventions may be utilized to improve performance in youth, collegiate, and professional athletes.
View our Research Publications
Learn more about the Center’s Collaborative Partners: