Orthopedic and Sports Biomechanics
Orthopedic Biomechanics investigates how cartilage, bone, muscle, tendon, and ligament tissues function when exposed to loading in healthy, diseased, or injury states. Sports Biomechanics includes the detailed analysis of athletic movements to minimize risk of injury and improve performance. Research efforts in these fields explore the interaction between an athlete and their equipment and/or environment, understanding mechanical stresses different tissues experience during activities of daily living, and how mechanical factors change as a result of tissue degradation or disease. Orthopedic and sports biomechanics research within our department currently provides information on understanding anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) loading, prevention of secondary osteoarthritis after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), and multiple sports performance studies including golf and baseball.