Rehabilitation research in the School explores topics to provide evidence about interventions; aiming to help people regain function following illness or disability.

The Acquired Brain Injury Group aims to improve current therapeutic interventions so that many more people can resume the activities they did before they had a stroke. Research activity is focused on the identification, development and evaluation of therapies to enhance recovery of movement after stroke, contributing to knowledge of recovery and restoration of function. To do this we combine clinical, neurophysiological and biomechanical investigation of the production and control of movement.

The Musculoskeletal group researches therapies designed to aid restoration of function to the musculoskeletal system. Research activity includes investigation into patellofemoral dislocation, carpal tunnel decompression and post operative splinting, and the impact of biologic therapies on functional gain, and other common musculoskeletal disorders.

The Cardovascular and Respiratory group aims to increase understanding of how interventions can impact on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Our studies include exercise based interventions and physical therapies. To do this we combine clinical and physiological investigations into the cardiovascular respiratory system as well as the impact on wellbeing and quality of life.

Research by the Clinical Exercise Physiology Group is focused on the health benefits of exercise and other lifestyle interventions in relation to the prevention and management of age-related chronic diseases. Specific research questions include: What is the role of exercise in ameliorating the risk of age-related chronic conditions, including cancer? How can exercise therapy be optimised (frequency, intensity, time and type) to bring the greatest health and therapeutic benefits for those with age-related chronic conditions and cancer? What is the role of exercise in primary and secondary disease risk modification? Why do some patients respond/adapt differently to exercise? What are the contra-indications to exercise in different clinical groups? Current projects involve cancer patients and survivors, and individuals at elevated risk of developing cancer, as well as patients with peripheral vascular disease and multiple sclerosis.