Gait and balance

Our research investigates the role of gait and balance in different contexts and uses gait analyses gait to improve treatment outcomes.

Gait and balance problems and falls are common problems associated with increasing age, and a number of common chronic health conditions, including arthritis, stroke, hip fracture and dementia. The Gait, Balance and Falls Research Group undertakes a broad range of research investigating underling mechanisms and contributory factors, assessment procedures, and approaches to improve function, health and well being of people with these and related problems. Research is also investigating uptake and engagement in evidence based interventions, and how these can be effectively translated into clinical practice.

The research team have completed a number of large scale randomised trials funded by NHMRC and other funding agencies, that have achieved improved outcomes of gait, balance or falls. Current projects include investigating effectiveness of a multifaceted podiatry intervention in reducing falls, identifying whether music can improve walking stability in people with Alzheimer’s disease, investigating factors contributing to poor outcomes (such as falls, and depression) after total hip or total knee surgery for osteoarthritis, and identifying factors contributing to high falls risk after patients with stroke return home from rehabilitation. The research team also supervise higher degree research students from locally and overseas, including students currently from Thailand and Malaysia; and have hosted short term research visits by researchers and clinicians, including recent visitors from Germany, Malaysia and Singapore.

Potential PhD topics

The Department will consider any research topic that interests potential PhD students; however, students will benefit from researching in areas that align with the Faculty’s research strengths.  Please find a relevant supervisor to discuss your PhD topic.

Alternatively you may contact one of our academics below to discuss your area of interest.