Feb 18, 2026
- Peter Fino awarded an R01 from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health & Human Development
- Project investigates reactive balance impairments following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)
- Study aims to guide development of targeted rehabilitation and real-world assessment tools
Peter Fino, associate professor in the Department of Health & Kinesiology, has received an R01 grant from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health for a project focused on understanding reactive balance deficits after mild traumatic brain injury. Persistent balance issues are common after mild traumatic brain injury, yet standard rehabilitation often emphasizes sensory integration even as emerging evidence points to motor impairments as a significant contributor.
Fino’s study examines reactive balance, the rapid motor response required to recover stability after sudden disturbances—an element of balance that differs from traditional static or dynamic assessments. His team will use a sliding platform, mechanized shoes, and wearable inertial sensors to study how mild traumatic brain injury affects the preparation for, and execution of, fast corrective responses. The research also includes developing methods to assess reactive balance in daily life, offering new insights that could shape future rehabilitation guidelines and complement current care.
Fino’s work centers on motor control, biomechanics, and rehabilitation science. He investigates how neurological conditions, including brain injuries, affect gait, balance, and overall movement. By integrating engineering methods with clinical insights, Fino aims to improve mobility, safety, and quality of life for patients. His collaborative, translational research informs evidence-based practices and helps advance rehabilitation approaches that address real-world challenges faced by individuals recovering from neurological injuries.