Although restoration of normal lower extremity mechanics is one of the primary goals of rehabilitation, loading strategies that shift the mechanical demands away from the knee extensors of the reconstructed joint have been found to persist up to two years post-operatively. This is of particular concern as these strategies are attributed to increased risk for re-injury, injury to the contralateral limb and progression of knee osteoarthritis.
Traditionally, early rehabilitation emphasizes resolution of joint impairments with a greater focus on movement dysfunction in later stages of rehabilitation. The goal of our research in this area is to improve our ability to address movement related impairments in the early rehabilitation phases.
Related Projects:
Understanding Movement Behaviors in Early Rehabilitation
Identification of Loading Deficits Outside the Research Laboratory