How foot structure and muscle function affect bone stress injuries in young people
Biomechanical factors affecting metatarsal fatigue and bone stress injury risk
This study is looking at what causes bone stress injuries in the foot for people under 20, focusing on how the way we walk and run, along with our muscle strength, can affect our bones, so we can find better ways to prevent these injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Worcester Polytechnic Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10291521 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that contribute to bone stress injuries (BSIs) in the metatarsals, particularly in individuals under 20 years old. By examining the biomechanics of the foot, muscle function, and the structural properties of the metatarsals, the study aims to understand how these elements interact during activities like walking and running. The researchers will use mechanical testing, computational modeling, and imaging techniques to analyze how muscle forces affect bone strain and damage accumulation. The goal is to identify ways to reduce the risk of BSIs through improved understanding of foot mechanics and muscle support.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are young individuals, particularly athletes or active youth, who are at risk for bone stress injuries.
Not a fit: Patients who are older adults or those with pre-existing severe bone conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies and treatments for bone stress injuries in young athletes and active individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the biomechanics of bone stress injuries, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Troy, Karen L — Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Study coordinator: Troy, Karen L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.