HPMAL History

The Human Performance and Movement Analysis Laboratory (HPMAL) was established in 1997 under the direction of Sue Ann Sisto, PT, PhD. Since its inception, the HPMAL has been focused on studying clinically relevant rehabilitation interventions that have the potential to improve functional mobility and prevent secondary complications associated with disability. Research projects have mostly concentrated on bipedal (gait) and wheelchair locomotion in two major patient populations - stroke and spinal cord injury.

Research Focus

The HPMAL uses instrumented analysis to routinely measure locomotion. Clinical gait and wheelchair analyses involve the collection of quantifiable information, such as 3D joint motion, kinetics, electromyography, and dynamic foot pressures to objectively measure changes in walking and wheelchair propulsion patterns.

Some areas of research include bipedal locomotion using body weight supported walking, wheelchair propulsion biomechanics and its relationship to upper limb pain, and the reduction and prevention of secondary conditions such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease through diet and exercise. Some technologies used in this research include SmartWheels, a portable metabolic system, bone densitometer, ergometers, and dynamometers.