Current Research: Efforts Toward Informed Pipette Design

Osteoarthritis (OA) is very common in the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, and women have a much higher risk.  The goal of this research is to identify mechanical factors that predispose people to a higher risk of OA in the thumb CMC.  We consider radiographic laxity, estrogen levels and joint contact mechanics.

Past Research: Radiocarpal Contact Mechanics

Of primary interest in scapholunate ligament tears are the mechanics of the radiocarpal joints. As the bones separate radiocarpal cartilage is loaded in new areas and often with higher pressures. These changes can lead to arthiritis and further collapse of this joints.

Past Research: Mid-Carpal Contact Mechanics

Our group is also looking at important mid-carpal mechanics with scapholunate ligament tear. The capitate is the central bone of the wrist and articulates with both the scaphoid and lunate. How does S-L ligament tear affect these joints?

Past Research: Distal Radioulnar Contact Mechanics

The distal radioulnar joint is not part of the wrist proper, but is a forearm joint. In vivo mechanics of this joint have not been characterized, and we are gathering that data. Also, how does scapholunate ligament tear affect this joint?