Overview
We are focused on improving the design, function, and clinical outcomes of assistive devices, such as prosthetics and orthotics, to enhance mobility and quality of life. Our research spans biomechanics, healthcare data analysis, and user-centred design, aiming to develop innovative solutions for individuals with limb loss or physical impairments. Through collaborations with healthcare providers and industry partners, we strive to create data-driven improvements in prosthetic care and rehabilitation.
A key outcome of our work has been the development of advanced prosthetic technologies that improve mobility and clinical outcomes for prosthesis users. This research has led to national-level changes in prosthetic service provision, as demonstrated by our REF 2021 impact case study on enhancing mobility in lower-limb prosthesis users. By influencing clinical practice and increasing access to advanced prosthetic devices, we have contributed to better patient outcomes and significant economic benefits.
Our projects focus on:
Our ongoing projects include working with healthcare providers to improve clinical outcomes, investigating biomechanics in users of prostheses, and collaborating on national initiatives for better prosthetic data collection. Our main areas of focus are:
We investigate how prosthetic stiffness, alignment, and material properties influence gait biomechanics and comfort. This focus helps inform the design of advanced prosthetic devices tailored to individual needs.
Our research explores how healthcare data can be used to improve prosthetic care and recovery outcomes. This focus helps guide clinical decision-making and the development of national data collection frameworks.
We collaborate with patients, clinicians, and engineers to develop assistive devices that enhance user experience, mobility, and quality of life. This focus helps ensure that new technologies meet the practical needs of users in both clinical and everyday settings.
Postgraduate Research Projects
Rob Green-Buckley - The Effect of Passive Dynamic Ankle Foot Orthoses on Movement Biomechanics and Musculo-Skeletal Health
The aim of this project is to investigate the effects of PDAFO use on both a non-injured and patient population within the UK military. This series of studies will include an RCT comparing PDAFOs to an alternate orthosis as well as capturing long term use biomechanics and bone mineral density data. This knowledge base will allow better informed clinical prescriptions of this orthosis type.
Jannis Hill – The effect of prosthetic shape and stiffness on the biomechanics of lower limb prostheses users
This project aims to develop and apply a forward-dynamics simulation model to investigate the effect of prosthetic shape and stiffness on the biomechanics of lower limb amputees. This understanding could provide more tailored and appropriate prosthetic prescription and subsequently improve the health and well-being of users of prostheses.