Emory & Henry School of Health Sciences Department of Physical Therapy Pediatric Lab is designed to identify, evaluate and implement research studies focusing on optimal functional movement of children birth through young adulthood. The pediatric lab will focus on childhood populations specific to the Appalachian region for assisting with identification and intervention strategies to improve quality of movement.
Animal Research Lab
The animal research facility is a space designed for animal housing, care, and experimentation. The facility has two animal housing rooms and a research lab. The research lab is multifunctional, allowing for in vivo experiment as well as histological and anatomical studies. The facility is equipped with histological equipment along with an electrophysiological setup and was principally designed in vivo experiments with rodents.
Functional Assessment Lab (BTE PrimusRS)
BTE PrimusRS is a highly sophisticated rehabilitation system designed for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and athletic training. This system provides accurate data regarding physical evaluation and treatment exercises and various occupational simulations. This system provides various resistance modes including Isotonic concentric; Isotonic eccentric; Isometric; Isokinetic; and CPM for upper extremity and lower extremity applications.
Applied Physiology Lab
The Applied Physiology Lab provides 2778 square feet of space dedicated to the clinical assessment of physiological function. The lab contains state-of-the-art equipment including Parvomedics Metabolic Measurement System, Quinton Q-Stress Cardiac Stress Testing System, Lode Excalibur Sport Bike Ergometer, Trackmaster Treadmill, Ultra-Low Freezer, and Phlebotomy Station.
The Tekscan pressure map analyzes foot pressure and foot biomechanics while weight bearing. The portable map allows for the collection of data on static and dynamic activities. The Tekscan map includes athletic testing procedures such as the SCAT concussion testing and balance measures. It is a “plug and go” device for ease of use.
Zeno Walkway by Protokinetics
Zeno Walkway is a gait analysis system with intergraded movement software and video. Gait parameters and deviations can be analyzed with or without an assistive device. Our 26-foot walkway enhances clinical practice and research efforts by offering the real-time mapping of the gait sequence and the components of gait for immediate feedback. Objective measures can be incorporated into gait analysis to provide an evidence-based approach to evaluations and treatment. Tracking progress and changes in gait over the course of therapy provides clinicians and researchers with diagnostic, intervention and outcome information.
SafeGait 360 system by Gorbel
The SafeGait system is a harness weight supported movement track system which is installed within the Falls Prevention Center. This system allows for increased ease and confidence for individuals who present with support and offloading needs. Individuals who require significant physical assistance, have movement restrictions such as limited weight bearing and individuals with lower limb prosthetics benefit from training with the SafeGait system. The harness system supports the individual and allows for the performance of daily activities such as sit to stand, walking, and up/down steps with no risk for falls. The amount of free movement can be pre-set and provides parameters for a zone of safety to ensure the individual feels no risk of injury or fall. As confidence and mobility improve, the setting can be adjusted to provide increased challenges.
Additional Research Equipment:
Pre-Driving Program
Driving is a very complex occupational task that many of us take for granted. The task of driving involves visual/perceptual, thinking, reaction time, and physical balance/strength/coordination skills.
The STISM Drive simulator is a great tool for measuring and addressing human functioning. This simulator provides real-world driving situations that can be safely practiced in a clinic setting.
Emory & Henry College – School of Health Sciences is developing a Pre-driving program for individuals in the community. This program is not a driving program and does not include any on-road assessment or driving. This program does not take the place of a driving assessment. Recommendations can be made for a driving assessment with a Driver Rehabilitation Specialist. This program does not fulfill any requirements for the medical review process with Virginia DMV. This program does not take the place of physical or occupational therapy. Recommendations can be made for an evaluation by a licensed physical or occupational therapist. More information about the Pre-Driving program can be found here.
