Research
The 1500 square foot Biomechanics Laboratory is well equipped to do research in various fields of human movement biomechanics. The Laboratory is equipped to measure 3D movement kinematics, externally applied forces and loads, and electromyographic (EMG) activity during a wide variety of human movement tasks. Current areas of research interest include:
- Local and global dynamic stability and falling
- The nature and role of “noise” in neuromuscular control
- Experimental validation of appropriate locomotor model structures
- Nonlinear “damage tracking” and the dynamics of repetitive stress injuries
- The acquisition of skilled/coordinated movements across the learning process
A focal point of many of these research projects is on applying and adapting methodologies from classical mechanics and nonlinear dynamics to analyze the biomechanical aspects of neuromuscular control problems. These research projects involve integrating methodologies and techniques developed in the fields of biomechanics, motor control, engineering, physics, and physiology. The overall goal of our lab is to use these techniques to address interesting questions that arise in both the basic sciences and clinical practice.
