Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research
Taking Steps Toward Recovery
We enhance quality of life for individuals with motor disabilities through translational research and the development of assistive technology that improves mobility and motor function and enhances their ability to participate in school, work, and community activities.
Leadership
Leadership
Laboratories
Laboratories
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Research Scientist
Neuromuscular and Electrophysiology Laboratory -
Research Scientist, Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research
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Senior Research Scientist
Musculoskeletal Biomotion Laboratory -
Director, Center for Spinal Stimulation
Neural Plasticity Laboratory -
Senior Research Scientist, Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research
Acquired Brain Injury Mobility Laboratory -
Research Scientist, Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research
PI - Balance Assessment and Training Laboratory -
Research Scientist, Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research
PI - Advanced Rehabilitation Neuroimaging Laboratory
Restoring Mobility through Gait and Balance Training
Restoring balance and mobility is an important first step toward recovery for individuals with disabilities caused by spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, arthritis and brain injury. Our scientists apply new technologies that advance rehabilitative care, including robotics, functional electrical stimulation, virtual reality, and the unique research capabilities of the Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center at Kessler Foundation.
Moving Robotics into Clinical Care
Our scientists have conducted pioneering research in different types of wearable robotics, including the Ekso GT, ReWalk, and Indego. The focus of their robotics research extends beyond restoring mobility to the impact on common complications that affect quality of life, including bone loss, muscle weakness, loss of bowel and bladder function, chronic pain, and sexual dysfunction.
Healing Children with TBI Through Technology
Our research shows that robotic exoskeleton training has the potential for tremendous impact on walking ability, community participation, and quality of life for individuals with brain injury. In a study of adolescents and young adults, participants train in the robotic exoskeleton and wear a Fitbit to record their daily activities. Scientists evaluate the brain changes that occur during motor recovery using a portable, noninvasive technology called fNIRS (functional near infrared spectroscopy). Understanding the changes in brain activity after injury and during recovery helps us design more effective rehabilitation protocols..
Demonstrating Efficacy of Rehabilitation Interventions
During her visit to the Foundation, New Jersey First Lady Tammy Murphy witnessed the impact of Kessler Foundation's research first hand. She received a demonstration of the efficacy of several rehabilitation interventions including spacial neglect and an exoskeleton worn by Natalie B., a young woman with paralysis caused by traumatic spinal cord injury.
Tammy Murphy, First Lady of New Jersey, visits Kessler Foundation's Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center. Pictured left to right: Rodger DeRose, President and CEO, Nancy Chiaravalloti, PhD, Tammy Murphy, John DeLuca, PhD, Peggy Chen, PhD, Gail Forrest, PhD, and Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD.
Tammy Murphy sits with Nancy Chiaravalloti, PhD, Director of Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research and Traumatic Brain Injury Research Centers.
Tammy Murphy tries on prism adaptation glasses used for spatial neglect after stroke.
Tammy Murphy watches as Natalie B., a research participant who has sustained a spinal cord injury, walks in our robotic exoskeleton.
Natalie B. demonstrates Kessler Foundation's robotic exoskeleton at Rocco Ortenzio Neuroimaging Center.
Helping Cancer Survivors Overcome Fatigue and Weakness
Despite advances in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer, many, like Angela Smith, live with fatigue and weakness long after treatment is complete. By studying the mechanisms involved in muscle strengthening, Kessler Foundation scientists are finding new ways to enhance physical conditioning, combat lasting symptoms, and restore active lives. Findings may improve outcomes for cancer survivors, and other populations affected by fatigue and weakness.
Engineering Innovative Solutions
Being active in the community requires adaptability. To prepare individuals for navigating different types of environments, scientists are testing a virtual reality-based treadmill called the C-Mill, which simulates conditions encountered in daily life. By incorporating mobile technologies such as wireless EEG, researchers are deepening their knowledge of the brain signals that control walking, and developing targeted treatments for improving balance, gait, and cognitive function.
Ghaith Androwis, PhD, customizes assistive devices for wheelchair users with a 3D printer
Improving Mobility for Children with Disabilities
Finding solutions for improving mobility for children with disabilities requires a tailored approach to rehabilitation research. In collaboration with Children’s Specialized Hospital, researchers are testing ways to use 3D printing to customize assistive devices, and studying ways to minimize physical stress for young wheelchair users, enabling them to engage safely in school and community life.
Multimedia
Volunteers are the Heart of Research
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Improving Outcomes for Cancer Survivors
Researchers at Kessler Foundation are studying a new way to help breast cancer survivors who experience weakness and fatigue long after their treatment has ended.