Physical Activity in Ageing, Rehabilitation and Health

Diabetes

The aim of the group is to better understand the role of physical activity and lifestyle modification, including dietary manipulation, on the prevention and management of Diabetes and its complications. A greater understanding of the mechanisms which underpin improvement in the diabetic condition will inform health care policy increasing patient quality of life and reducing social and economic burden.

Falls

The aim of our research group is to explore and evaluate the physiological, psychological, and biomechanical components involved in the prevention of, and rehabilitation from, falls.  We work with local health services primarily focusing on interventions designed to reduce falls in community dwelling older adults (>65 years. Identification and subsequent reduction risk factors by multi-factorial assessment and intervention means that independence and quality of life can be maintained for longer in later life. 

Motivation and physical activity

The aim of this research group is to explore motivation within exercise and sport settings. Two key theories are mainly used to explore motivation: self-determination theory and reversal theory in a range of populations and contexts. For instance, projects range from examinations of in situ motivation during acute exercise in healthy individuals to long term changes and predictors of motivation in chronically ill individuals.

Shoulder and upper limb rehabilitation

The aim of this research group is to restore upper limb function in people with movement disorders following stroke, spinal cord injury or other neuromuscular condition. The recovery of movement in people with activity limiting disorders can allow the resumption of independent living, the maintenance of health through exercise and the reduction of pain and discomfort. We are interested in understanding the changes that take place in the neuromuscular system following stroke or spinal cord injury, and use this information to help us develop rehabilitation procedures and assistive devices to improve function.