Research Groups
Research within the Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic training is crucial for advancing the field and improving patient care. It allows professionals to develop and refine evidence-based treatments, enhancing the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs and injury prevention strategies. Through rigorous studies, researchers can identify best practices, evaluate new techniques, and assess the outcomes of various interventions.
Aging Muscle and Rehabilitation Lab
The Aging and Rehabilitation Laboratory is interested in identifying the cellular mechanisms of skeletal muscle atrophy/regrowth and metabolic dysfunction with aging and the interaction of physical inactivity and exercise. We also have a keen interest in identifying novel, mechanistically-based therapeutic strategies to improve aging muscle size and function.
Contact: Micah J. Drummond, PhD
Clinical Outcomes Research
The Clinical Outcomes Research in Physical Therapy is lead by Julie M. Fritz, PT, PhD, ATC with projects in management of patients with low back pain and patients with neck pain.
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Motion Analysis Core
A research facility focused on the study of the coordination of movement and postural control in health, aging, and disease. Research is conducted using state of the art measurement techniques including kinetic, kinematics, electromyography, and full motion fluoroscopy.
Contact: Bo Foreman, PhD
Skeletal Muscle Exercise Research Facility
The SMERF is focused on muscle, movement and human performance; specifically how muscles adapt and how these changes help or hinder human function in daily life and across the lifespan, following injury or disease, and in sport.
Contact: Micah J. Drummond, PhD
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Sports Medicine Research Lab
The Sports Medicine Research Lab is located within the 6,000 square foot College of Health Research Complex. This newly renovated, multi-laboratory space houses the necessary equipment to quantify biomechanical movement, isokinetic strength, aerobic capacity, and more. The lab's current agenda will focus on research within movement patterns and muscle function in individuals following musculoskeletal injuries and the investigation of novel modalities to advance sport medicine treatments.
Contact: Justin Rigby, PhD, ATC & Stephan Bodkin, PhD, ATC