Research Focus
Research in the Biomechanics Laboratory focuses on three major areas:
We also collaborate frequently with Dr. Richard Van Emmerik and the UMass Motor Control Lab. Students are funded primarily by departmental research and/or teaching assistantships. Current external funding is provided by the National Institutes of Health, the American Society of Biomechanics, the International Society of Biomechanics, New Balance, Acushnet Technologies, and Kosair Charities.
Student Dissertation Projects
Ryan Chang - Plantar fasciitis: coordination, muscle activity, and atrophy
CJ Hasson - Muscular properties and balance control in older adults
Ross Miller - Optimal control of human running
Elizabeth Russell - Insole intervention to reduce loading at the knee joint
Current Projects
The Effects of Muscle Fiber Type Composition on Human Performance
The fiber type composition (percentage of fast-twitch and slow-twitch fibers) of human muscles should affect performance, but it is difficult to isolate these effects experimentally. Computer simulations of maximal-effort jumping and submaximal pedaling are being used to better identify the independent effects of fiber type composition on human performance. Umberger and Caldwell.
Mechanical Energy Transfer and Metabolic Cost of Walking in Children
The relationship between mechanical energy transfer and the metabolic cost of walking is being determined in children of different ages, and in children with cerebral palsy. Umberger, with C. Tylkowski, D. Oeffinger, S. Augsburger, and J. Resig (Shriners Hospital for Children).
Muscular Properties and Balance Control in Older Adults
Aging results in profound structural and functional changes in skeletal muscle. This project will relate the properties of muscles controlling the ankle joint to balance performance in healthy young and older adults. A musculoskeletal model will be developed to investigate the sensitivity of balance control to the mechanical properties of muscle. Caldwell and Hasson.
Coordination of the Rearfoot and Forefoot in Patients with Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is thought to result from bending and twisting of the forefoot relative to the rearfoot. We are using a dynamical systems method to understand the coordination between these segments. In addition, we are using MR imaging to detect atrophy and spectroscopy to determine energetics of the intrinsic foot muscles. Hamill and Chang.
Strain in the Iliotibial Band
Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) has been related to hip adduction and internal knee rotation, both of which have been suggested to cause strain in the iliotibial band. A musculo-skeletal model is being developed to investigate strain, strain rate and duration of impingement. Hamill and Miller, with B. Noehren and I.S. Davis (University of Delaware).