Research Areas
Click
on the research areas below for more information. You will be re-directed to the Center for Rehabilitation Sciences
website.
Muscle Biology of Rehabilitation
The
importance of establishing the efficacy of therapeutic procedures is a priority
in the field of rehabilitation. Research efforts in the muscle biology of
rehabilitation are ongoing to assist in the quantification and evaluation of
rehabilitation outcomes. Rehabilitation research faculty, postdoctoral fellows,
and students address these issues by engaging in research activities in
laboratories located in the Departments of Physical Therapy, Internal Medicine
(Endocrinology and Geriatrics), and Orthopedic Surgery and Rehabilitation. This
network of research labs allows for integration of research information and
activities in muscle biology, motor control, and applied physiology, with basic
rehabilitation practice.
Cognitive/Neurological Rehabilitation
Examines
basic and applied mechanisms of cognitive and neurological rehabilitation. A
collaborative relationship exists between UTMB and the Transitional Learning
Center, a residential facility for persons with acquired brain injury.
The Transitional
Learning Center, in Galveston, Texas, is a residential facility that provides
rehabilitation, psychological, vocational and social services to persons with
acquired brain injury and their families.
Rehabilitation research faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and students
will have the opportunity to conduct research in a variety of areas related to
cognitive rehabilitation with faculty and professional staff involved with the
Transitional Learning Center. The Transitional Learning Center also will provide
the opportunity to participate in experiences involving persons with
disabilities and community advocacy activities.
Geriatric Rehabilitation
Examines social,
environmental, and medical interventions associated with successful aging and
evaluates functional outcomes and the impact of minority status on health and
disability in older adults. More than 17 million older adults reported the need
for some use of long-term care and rehabilitation services in 2005. Sixty-five
percent of these individuals are 65 years-of-age and older. Research
collaboration takes place with investigators in the Sealy Center on Aging.
Applicants selecting to work in the area of Geriatric Rehabilitation will have
the opportunity to engage in research with internationally recognized leaders in
geriatric health care and disability research in minority aging.
