Determining The Pathomechanics Of Muscle Weakness In Older Individuals With Toe Deformities In Order To Develop Evidence-based Intervention Strategies To Restore Foot Function
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$316,251.00
Summary
Hallux valgus and lesser toe deformities are highly prevalent foot problems in older people that can cause foot disfigurement, physical discomfort, and increase the risk of falling. This study will investigate how toe muscle weakness is affected by these toe deformities as the basis upon which to develop interventions that can restore foot function in older individuals, in order to reduce falls risk, foot pain and, in turn, improve independence and quality of life throughout ageing.
Sensorimotor Control Of Foot Function: Adapting The Mechanical Function Of The Foot To Optimise Balance And Gait Performance
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$314,644.00
Summary
Walking and running places immense load on our feet, with 20% of adults suffering from foot pain. Recent research has highlighted the important role of the muscles within the foot in facilitating our ability to withstand excessive load and maintain balance. But it remains unknown how the nervous system controls this function. This research will explore how the brain and spinal cord control these muscles, providing a comprehensive understanding of the role of the foot in balance and gait.
How Does The Trunk Influence Intersegmental Coordination During Functional Tasks In Parkinson’s Disease: A Risk Factor For Falls?
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$328,032.00
Summary
Differences in trunk motion during dynamic tasks may provide a mechanism of falling in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. However, objective measures are needed to discern if these differences stem from deficits in motor programming or increased trunk stiffness. This information is critical for developing effective interventions. This project will incorporate innovative techniques to examine how the trunk muscles coordinate movement and control balance during walking in PD.
Insulin Resistance In Peripheral Artery Disease: Clinical Significance And Therapy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$316,449.00
Summary
This project seeks to improve our understanding and treatment of peripheral artery disease – a condition caused by narrowing/blockages in arteries that supply the legs. Peripheral artery disease affects ~15% of adults >40 years and often causes severe, disabling leg pains during walking. Building on recent findings that peripheral artery disease shares some similar characteristics to type 2 diabetes (“insulin resistance”), a common anti-diabetes drug will be trialled as a potential new strate ....This project seeks to improve our understanding and treatment of peripheral artery disease – a condition caused by narrowing/blockages in arteries that supply the legs. Peripheral artery disease affects ~15% of adults >40 years and often causes severe, disabling leg pains during walking. Building on recent findings that peripheral artery disease shares some similar characteristics to type 2 diabetes (“insulin resistance”), a common anti-diabetes drug will be trialled as a potential new strategy to alleviate these leg pains.Read moreRead less
Muscle Contracture In Multiple Sclerosis Prevalence And Rehabilitation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$175,583.00
Summary
A population-based study of prevalence of muscle contracture will provide helpful information to health providers about the magnitude of the problem of contracture. This information will focus research efforts, and help health care providers to allocate resources appropriately. Recent studies have found that current treatments for contracture often provide transient or no effects. This project will test a promising new direction in treatment of contracture in people with multiple sclerosis.