Research findings from the laboratory are used to improve our understanding of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders, as well as develop new treatment approaches. To find more information on a particular research study, please view the outlines and general eligibility criteria below. If you are interested in taking part in a research study in the lab, please click the respective study links below.
1) Linking biomechanical and imaging outcomes to better understand the effects of running on knee joint health
Overview: Physical activity has been widely recognized as an important treatment approach for knee osteoarthritis (OA); however, little is known about the effects of running with this condition. Previous studies have suggested healthy knee cartilage has the ability to become stronger immediately after running in the short-term, but it remains unclear if unhealthy knee cartilage would react the same.
Objectives: To investigate the effects of running on individuals with knee osteoarthritis, including response of cartilage immediately following a run, as well as following a 12-week running program increasing running volume.
For more information about participating in this study and to register your interest, click here.
2) A multi-centre feasibility study assessing shoe-worn insoles to improve clinical and biomechanical features of knee osteoarthritis
Overview: Lateral wedge insoles (built up higher on the outside part of the insole) have been shown to reduce measures of loading at the knee, a primary risk factor for osteoarthritis worsening. These lateral wedge insoles have been implemented with or without custom-formed medial arch support. However, individual response to the insoles varies greatly, and thus far factors such as foot pain have not been considered.
Objectives: 1) To examine how different shoe-worn insoles affect knee and foot pain, as well as the loading patterns in the knee during walking, and 2) to develop methods to predict who may beneficially respond to different insole types.
For more information about participating in this study and to register your interest, click here.