We stand without falling by using silent senses from muscles and the balance organs of the inner ear to unconsciously detect and control our movements. Since the leg muscles provide both the force and the sense, and critically rely on good circulation, they are vitally important. I propose to study how these sensory and muscle functions are used to control balance, posture and stepping reflexes, making it easier to identify older people who will fall and design new preventative strategies.
Mood and anxiety disorders represent a tremendous cause of disability and morbidity. This research will use cutting-edge brain imaging technologies to understand why these disorders typically emerge in young people and whether brain imaging can reliably predict the effectiveness of different treatments for individual patients.
Vestibulo-ocular Reflex Physiology, Pathology And Rehabilitation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Summary
A sensation of movement from the inner ear is used to stabilise vision during head movements. Without it, every time you walk, run, or drive on a bumpy road, the world would appear to bounce. It can be debilitating when this sense doesn't work due to various diseases. This research examines how this sense works normally and the factors important for self-repair after injury. This work will also develop training exercises using a device for take-home balance rehabilitation.
New Insights Into The Mechanisms Of Thrombogenesis In Atrial Fibrillation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$443,946.00
Summary
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common heart rhythm disturbance (arrhythmia), which is associated with a high risk of stroke due to clot formation within the left atria. At present we still only have a limited understanding of the mechanism of clot formation in AF. The aim of this study is to determine the critical mechanisms that contribute to clot formation within the left atria in AF. This knowledge is fundamental to the development of more successful interventional approaches.
A Balancing Act: A Three-pronged Approach To Vestibular Assessment
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$419,180.00
Summary
Vertigo and imbalance are common and disabling symptoms of vestibular (balance) dysfunction. This project will investigate three aspects of vestibular function: by searching for new balance reflexes, revealing the pattern of vestibular deficits in patients with a common form of vertigo caused by migraine, and exploring the impact of vestibular disease on thinking and memory. This research will improve our understanding of the vestibular system and facilitate the diagnosis of episodic vertigo.