Derfner-Lieberman Laboratory for Regenerative Rehabilitation Research

Rehabilitation Reimagined, No Surgery Required

The Derfner-Lieberman Laboratory for Regenerative Rehabilitation Research integrates regenerative medicine with rehabilitation science to explore how non-surgical, tissue-restoring therapies can enhance function and relieve pain for individuals with musculoskeletal and neurological injuries.

Micro-Fragmented Adipose Tissue

We study MFAT injections to treat shoulder and knee injuries.

Platelet-Rich Plasma

We are testing how PRP treatments can address rotator cuff disease in wheelchair users.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy

We are testing shockwave therapy for the treatment of arthritis and spasticity.

Ultrasound Therapy

We study the use of ultrasound-guided therapies for chronic shoulder pain in spinal cord injury patients.

A Winning Team of Experts with Lived and Clinical Experience

The Derfner-Lieberman Laboratory is led by Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD, (pictured left) who sustained a spinal cord injury himself and now leads research to improve mobility and quality of life for others. Fellow scientists include Nathan Hogaboom, PhD, (pictured right) a recognized rising star in regenerative rehabilitation, and Jay E. Bowen, DO, a visiting specialist in orthobiologic treatments like PRP and MFAT.

Pioneering Non-Surgical and Tissue-Restoring Treatments

The Derfner-Lieberman Laboratory is leading the way in regenerative rehabilitation, transforming orthopedic recovery through minimally invasive treatments that help people with disabilities avoid the risks and limitations of surgery.

Derfner-Lieberman Laboratory Leadership

Jay E. Bowen, DO

Visiting Scientist

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Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD

Director

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Nathan Hogaboom, PhD

Research Scientist

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Steven Kirshblum, MD

Chief Medical Officer

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Your Support Drives Change

When you give to Kessler Foundation, you change the landscape of what's possible and give life to our regenerative rehabilitation research.

Pastora Goldner holding a baby in front of a christmas tree

Pastora Goldner, A Mother’s Day Reflection

Over thirty years ago, Pastora was involved in a devastating car accident in the middle of the desert. She has lived with a spinal cord injury ever since.

A wheelchair user sits on grass near a lake, posing beside upright outdoor gear, with calm water, boats, and a green shoreline in the background.

Victor Pena Keeps Life Sporty After SCI

“I’m passionate about sports,” says Victor Pena, who lives with SCI. “Staying active improves my physical and mental health.”

A clinician supports an adult participant during a regenerative rehabilitation session, guiding arm and upper‑body movement as the participant sits upright in a clinical treatment room with examination equipment nearby.

Joe Monteforte's Remarkable Journey, SCI

In 2017, Joe Monteforte, a wheelchair user with spinal cord injury and debilitating shoulder pain, faced the prospect of shoulder surgery...

Study Spotlight

Shockwave Therapy for Bone Marrow Damage in People with Knee Arthritis

People with knee pain due to arthritis often have damage to a portion of the bone that contains blood vessels, called bone marrow. The purpose of this study is to determine the safety and efficacy of focused extracorporeal shockwave therapy for bone marrow damage in people with knee arthritis. The shockwave therapy device generates high pressure and short duration sound waves that interact with different tissues in the body. It does not produce electrical shocks.

See If You Qualify