The Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Research Laboratory is dedicated to the biomechanical investigation of movement and musculoskeletal disorders, interventions and adaptations.

MBRL is under the direction of Dr. Kulig, Dr. Powers and Dr. Salem and is located within the Division of Biokinesiology & Physical Therapy, on the University of Southern California’s Health Sciences Campus.  This location fosters collaboration with the Departments of Orthopaedics, Neurology, Radiology, and Biomedical Engineering in order to provide an interdisciplinary approach to addressing complex research questions.  Using state of the art technology, investigators are able to test hypotheses related to the biomechanical and motor control strategies associated with both healthy and pathological human movement. MBRL is also dedicated to the training and development of graduate-student researchers through education, experimental inquiry, team interaction, and mentorship.

Research Programs: 1) Biomechanical investigations of the root causes of musculoskeletal disorders and the assessment of the efficacy of selected interventions. 2) The biomechanical basis of functionally based exercises and principles governing their application across a broad range of populations. 3) Investigation of neuromusculoskeletal adaptations accompanying musculoskeletal disorders characterized by recurring symptoms.