Our areas of research focus include:
- Brain Injury Research
We study how pharmacotherapies and environmental factors influence outcomes after brain injuries. Our researchers also study the relationship between physical activity and recovery, how the brain controls the limbs, and which imaging techniques can improve our ability to diagnose and treat individuals with brain injuries. We established the field of “Rehabilomics,” which focuses on how to use biomarkers to personalize treatments for individual patients to maximize function and recovery. The ultimate goal is to develop better therapeutic interventions to restore function after a brain injury. Read more...
- Data Science and Rehabilitation Analytics
Our research focuses on understanding why different rehabilitation interventions result in different patient outcomes. We use traditional statistical methods, machine learning, and Artificial Intelligence. We also have a core dedicated to improving the measurement of health outcomes. Our work informs the implementation of rehabilitation interventions throughout health systems and communities. Read more...
- Musculoskeletal Research
Our research investigates the biology and mechanics of musculoskeletal conditions such as musculoskeletal injuries, muscle atrophy, and intervertebral disc degeneration. This includes developing biologic, regenerative, and therapeutic treatments to improve functional outcomes or minimize the condition’s progression. We also examine the effects of human motion on inflammation in the body. Read more...
- Neuropsychology and Rehabilitation Psychology Research
One research has three broad aims. The first is to better understand the relationship between the brain and human behavior. The second is how to design better psychological evaluations. The third is to determine which rehabilitation psychology treatments for people with disabilities result in the best outcomes, and how best to measure those outcomes. Read more...
- Pediatric Rehabilitation Research
Our research aims to improve delivery of medical services to children with disabilities. We also conduct research to demonstrate which rehabilitation interventions improve functional outcomes and to understand and predict the trajectories of functional improvements. We aim to identify the best methods to transition patients from pediatric to adult medical and rehabilitation care. Our research is inclusive of a variety of pediatric conditions that result in limitations in physical and cognitive function. We study the best ways to tailor treatments for children’s unique characteristics and circumstances and how to overcome barriers to health equity. Read more...
- Spinal Cord Injury and Technology Research
Our research aims to improve outcomes of people living with spinal cord injury, spina bifida, and non-traumatic spinal cord conditions. Our Department is a Model Center on Spinal Cord Injury research, funded by National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). We are also a site within the National Spina Bifida Patient Registry, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We carry out clinical research to understand which interventions improve the medical and functional outcomes of people with these conditions. We conduct engineering research to innovate new assistive technologies, robotics, neuro-prosthetics, and related brain-computer interface technology. We also study methods to restore sensory, motor, and bladder function resulting from neurological injury to the spinal cord. Read more...