Neuromuscular Research Laboratory
Lab 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 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 musculoskeletal injury and pathology. 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, proprioception, 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.
The laboratory situated within the complex at the Rivertech Office Works at end of South Water Street, next to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery's Biodynamics Laboratory and Knee Biomechanics Laboratory and will form a Research Center of Excellence.
The laboratory encompasses 5,200 square feet and houses three separate motion analysis systems for specific task and sport analyses. The laboratory also features defined areas for sports physiology, proprioception, postural stability, and strength assessments. Additional space has been designed for offices for all of the NMRL's faculty as well as a conference and classroom for instruction of the Department of Sports Medicine and Nutrition's sports medicine classes (MS and PhD).