Laboratory Overview

The Neuromuscular Research Laboratory (NMRL) is the applied research facility of the University of Pittsburgh's Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition within the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. The NMRL collaborates with the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center as the primary clinical research division.

Since 1990, the NMRL has initiated research in the area of proprioception and neuromuscular control, in an attempt to answer many of the clinical questions regarding the role of capsuloligamentous structures and the pathoetiology of joint injury. The objectives of our research are to study comprehensive profiles of an individual's function by evaluating both the sensory and motor characteristics specific to several clinical conditions. Biomechanical and neuromuscular assessments under sports-simulated environments are used to determine specific variables including investigating the influence of weight distribution, muscle function, balance, flexibility, muscle memory, gender, aging, and fatigue, as well as the the effects of injury, surgery, and rehabilitation on joint stability. Deficiencies in body mechanics and muscle function are used to develop programs not only to improve performance but also minimize injury potential.

Housed within the UPMC Sports Performance Complex, the location facilitates the interaction between physicians, physical therapists, athletic trainers, and laboratory personnel. The laboratory personnel includes athletic trainers, orthopaedic surgeons, medical doctors, physical therapists, and international research fellows.