(Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Science)
Biomechanics is the study of the effects and control of forces that act on or are produced by living tissue. Biomechanics also involves understanding the generation of internal forces within the human body. It examines the loading, posture and movements generated by these internal and external forces. Researchers in this area are involved in basic, clinical and occupational problems. Courses and research emphasize:
- development and use of methodologies such as electromyography, kinetics (joint moments and powers), and kinematics to understand loading on various tissues and the control and regulation of goal directed movements and postures.
- task specific analytical models of the musculo-skeletal system to enhance our understanding of human anatomy and function. These models may utilize various optimization functions and/or are driven by biological signals such as the electromyogram.
- assessment and rehabilitation of mobility problems in various neuro-musculoskeletal pathologies, and the aged.
- assessment and reduction of risks in occupational settings. Researchers are interested in understanding mechanisms and reducing acute and repetitive strain injuries to the back, shoulders, wrists and other body regions, and modifying and or designing better workplace environments to improve employee safety.