Research
The School of Rehabilitation Science advances leading edge, clinically relevant research across the lifespan and clinical specialties. We are actively engaged in an array of research activities within which we mentor top caliber MSc and PhD graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and research scientists. Working collaboratively across disciplines and borders, faculty members have received numerous competitive research grants through agencies such as the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF), and Physiotherapy Foundation of Canada (PFC) to name a few. As a consequence of this dynamic research program, faculty members publish extensively in the peer reviewed literature and provide evidence to improve physical therapy practice.
Illustrative examples of the scope of research areas in which faculty and students are involved include:
- Development and validation of clinical tests for individuals with incontinence and musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, ankylosing spondylitis and osteoarthritis;
- Research investigating the effectiveness of physical therapy evaluation and treatment including remote assessment (via video) and exercise management for multiple conditions;
- Investigation of the benefits of group exercise and education programs for individuals with chronic low back pain, breast cancer, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury;
- Examining the basic underpinnings of chronic conditions;
- Investigating risk and prevention of falls in the elderly and maintaining physical activity in individuals with chronic health conditions;
- Conducting systematic reviews, meta-analysis and development of clinical practice guidelines related to effectiveness of non-pharmacologic interventions for musculoskeletal and neurological disorders; and
- Knowledge translation, evidence-based practice and interprofessional education contributing to knowledge and practice in the areas of clinical competence, effective interventions and best practice decision-making.
Several research projects, such as these, have led to development of community programs aimed at better patient outcomes and higher quality of life through improved physical function and activity. A notable example is the development of a smart phone app that assists young, male hemophiliacs determine an appropriate response to an injury (HIRT).
Evidence-based practice relies heavily on the willingness and generosity of volunteer participants who give of their time to be part of the research.
If you are interested in learning more about the research at the School of Rehabilitation Science, as a research student or as a participant, please feel free to contact us. You can also visit the faculty pages for specifics of their research.