College of Education and Human Development

Research Focus

The overarching focus of my research is investigating lower extremity biomechanics to develop and optimize injury prevention and gait retraining interventions that can prevent injuries and/or delay the onset and progression of orthopaedic diseases. The interdisciplinary research group develops pre-clinical and clinical research that produces research of consequence. Our state-of- the-art biomechanics laboratory instrumentation (e.g., motion capture, force plates, ultrasound imaging) enables best research practices for basic and translational research. We also conduct community outreach to provide evidence-based interventions to prevent falls in older adults.

Current Projects

■ Investigation of injury prevention feedback frequency to decrease anterior cruciate ligament injuries in active individuals: we are using motor learning paradigms of how frequently individuals should receive feedback to optimize learning and acquisition of motor skills.

■ Comparison of the effects of gait modification strategies on knee adduction moment in patients with medial knee osteoarthritis: randomized controlled trial: we are implementing an RCT using haptic feedback to assist individuals with knee osteoarthritis by improving gait mechanics and consequently decreasing cartilage degeneration and total knee replacements.

■ Evidence-based intervention to decrease falls risk on older adults: for the past 3 years, we have received funding for a community outreach program to deliver evidence-based interventions to community-dwelling older adults. The primary aim is to reduce the risk of falls and number of falls experienced by older adults, and improve quality of life and independent life.

■ Investigation of biomechanical patterns in dancers: a comparison study: this unique study uses a multiprong approach to investigate injury risk differences between dancers and non-dancers. Using an experimental approach, as well as a computational modeling approach, we are investigating the distinctive characteristics in dancers that may explain their lower incidence of acute lower extremity injuries.

Select Publications

■ T. Popovic et al., Implicit video feedback produces positive changes in landing mechanics. J Exp Orthop 5(12) (2018).

■ N. Cortes, Video analysis verification of head impact events measured by wearable sensors. Am J Sports Med. 25(10), 2379-2387 (2017).

■ O. Eddo et al., Current evidence of gait modification with real-time biofeedback to alter kinetic, temporospatial, and function-related outcomes: a review. International Journal of Kinesiology and Sports Science 5(3), 35-55 (2017).

■ S. Sikdar et al., Dynamic ultrasound imaging applications to quantify musculoskeletal function. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 42(3), 126-135 (2014).