Neuromechanical Performance

This research team investigates correlations and limitations to the efficiency of movement execution and dynamic stabilisation of synovial joints during physiological and mechanical stresses. It has considered the adequacy of maximal muscle functional performance capabilities and neuromechanical control to the likelihood of damage to ligamentous tissue and key musculoskeletal structures.

The team is based within the newly constructed Natural Sciences Research Centre and the Sports Biomechanics and Exercise Kinesiology suite of laboratories. Research is developing and evaluating the efficacy of neuromechanical, musculoskeletal and physiological models for stabilising joint systems under exercise stress, aetiologies of synovial joint injury and sub-optimal patterning of physical activities.

The research encompasses leading-edge technologies including; the assessment of performance capabilities by evoked, non-invasive and painless magnetic stimulation of the peripheral neural pathways, 3D kinematic motion analysis and kinetic systems for the evaluation of movement precision and variability during functional activities. Laboratory-based research is investigating the potency of the effects of exercise and mechanical interventions (including fatigue, exercise-induced muscle damage, and vibrational stress) and conditioning on neuromuscular performance capabilities, precision and variability of activations and associated movements of joint systems in adult and paediatric populations.

• The research profile of this group is extended to encompass evaluation of: the efficacy of neuromuscular-enhanced physical therapy rehabilitation and conditioning interventions in clinical populations undergoing knee surgery and in patients with renal disease
• the effects of varying patterns of children's physical activity and exercise-induced muscle damage
• the neuromuscular performance capabilities, variability and injury avoidance characteristics associated with the high-performance athlete.

• Miss Zoe Butcher
• Dr Claire Minshull