Researchers at the University of Kentucky in Lexington are launching a clinical trial to improve ankle fracture recovery, alongside a separate study focused on personalized rehabilitation for knee arthritis.
Brian Noehren, PhD, associate dean for research at the University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences and director of its Biomotion Laboratory, received grants from the National Institutes of Health and the War Department to lead the research, according to an Oct. 15 news release.
The NIH-funded study will use MRI scans lasting five to 10 minutes to examine muscle composition in patients with knee arthritis. Researchers aim to develop noninvasive biomarkers that clinicians can use to personalize rehabilitation programs based on patients’ muscle characteristics.
The second study, supported by a $1,499,334 War Department grant, will examine recovery after ankle fractures. Researchers aim to develop treatment guidelines for patients with these injuries, which can lead to long-term pain and difficulty returning to work or military service. Approximately 50% of patients who experience an ankle fracture develop chronic pain, according to the release.
Both studies involve specialists in orthopedic surgery, muscle biology, physical therapy and engineering. The research teams aim to improve screening and rehabilitation approaches to reduce chronic pain and disability.
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