“Neuromechanics” is a new field that merges physiology and biomechanics to understand key aspects of movement planning and execution. Similar to how robotics researchers must focus on both hardware and software to design a robot to execute a specific task, we focus on how muscles and bone (the “hardware”) are controlled by the brain and spinal cord (the “software”) to produce movements. We also evaluate how clinicians and therapists can best design interventions or therapies to enhance movement in the event of aging or disease. Specific focus areas include:
Biomechanics of balance and posture
Perceptual influences on mobility and balance