Report, 2005/2006

[2007]

School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago

Centre for Physiotherapy Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago

Academic and research staff at the School of Physiotherapy are engaged in high quality, internationally recognised research carried out under the umbrella of the Centre for Health, Physical Activity and Rehabilitation. The research focus of the Centre is directed towards understanding disability from the perspectives of impairment, activity limitations and participation restrictions so as to improve and optimize the quality of life for different patient populations including those with musculoskeletal, neurological and chronic health conditions.
The recognition of the importance of physical activity is reflected in a number of studies which are investigating walking as a therapeutic intervention for low back pain, and gymnasium access issues for physically disabled children. Another strong field is applied and biomechanical research, with projects undertaken to identify movement patterns associated with musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain and osteoarthritis.