Research Projects

A selection of completed and ongoing research projects are listed below. Please contact us with any questions regarding our research.

Biplanar Postural Stability Model in Children with Cerebral Palsy

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Control of standing posture is a challenging task for children with cerebral palsy. We developed a bi-planar model of postural stability to investigate the neurological factors affecting balance deficits in children with diplegic cerebral palsy (CP). The model is based on an inverted pendulum and describes sway in both the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) planes. This model may help understanding the underlying factors affecting instability and may ultimately lead to better treatments.

Quantitative Study of Anterior and Posterior Walker Usage Dynamics in Children with Cerebral Palsy

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Children with cerebral palsy may have postural instability, altered muscle tone, and restricted voluntary movement, and may require assistive devices such as walkers to carry out daily routines. There is no current methodology to aid clinicians in determining the best walker for a patient. Our study analyzes differences between anterior and posterior walkers.

Click here for a list of publications related to this grant.

Walking Assessment of Children with Spina Bifida

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Upper extremity motion analysis applied to children with spina bifida is used to further the understanding of crutch-assisted gait by physicians, engineers and physical therapists. This information may be used to prevent injury in long-term crutch users and improve their quality of life.