Research in the Applied Neuromechanics Lab focuses on interactions between musculoskeletal biomechanics and sensorimotor control of lower extremity function with particular emphasis on the coordination of locomotion and balance. We apply biomechanical and neurophysiologic principles to understand aging and disease processes (Autism Spectrum Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson’s disease) so that interventions (Behavioral: Exercise; Surgical: Deep Brain Stimulation; and Pharmacological) can be optimized to improve physical function and Quality of Life.

Neuromechanics seeks to understand how muscles, sense organs, motor pattern generators, and the brain interact to produce coordinated movement. Our primary application of neuromechanics emphasizes ameliorating human health problems (restoration of movement following brain insult, ie Parkinson’s disease , Autism Spectrum Disorders). Coordinated movement emerges from the interplay among descending output from the central nervous system, sensory input from body and environment, muscle dynamics, and the emergent dynamics of the whole animal.

We are an interdisciplinary lab, spanning a range of disciplines such as exercise science, engineering, electrophysiology, neuroscience, and to some extent psychology. We strongly feel that this is the way science is going; in today’s world, having a single-topic lab nestled in a narrowly-defined department is no way to make great advances.