Postural Control

• Balance in Children with Cochlear Implants
  • Given the important role that the vestibular system plays in maintaining balance we need to understand how cochlear implants and other children with hearing devices are able to maintain an upright posture. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the effect of varying degrees of hearing loss on static and dynamic balance in children with and without normal hearing. Balance performance will be analyzed using three different methods: BOT-2 test, Y-balance test, and standing balance through use of a force plate.
• Postural Control with Feedback
  • Manipulation of visual information can affect postural control characteristics which can be captured through measurement of center of pressure variables. In this study, we are evaluating the reliability and the efficacy of a novel feedback environment that is designed to provide a more customizable alternative for postural control intervention. Currently, the device is being assessed for its capability to collect various linear and nonlinear center of pressure variables in both static and dynamic standing conditions with future plans to incorporate into rehabilitation of lower extremity injuries.

• Punching Out Parkinson
  • Exercise is a known modality used to lessen the progressive declines associated with PD; however, the specific exercise requirements and variety of exercise programs that people with PD can participate and receive positive health benefits requires further investigation. In this project, we are tracking the longitudinal changes of neuromotor function of people with PD while they are participating in a weekly non-contact boxing exercise program. In addition to the positive community environment of group exercise, our team is examining respiratory, mobility, balance, and neural control components.

https://punchingoutparkinsons.org/

Competitive athletes utilize various techniques in training to enhance performance in their sport, one of which is strategic focus of attention. Internal and external focus of attention are different types of focal points that an athlete can use to maximize his or her performance. The purpose of this study is to examine whether internal or external focus of attention will be most beneficial to increase stability in skilled and less skilled soccer players.

Graduate

Morteza Farivar (PhD) – I am an international graduate student at TCU. I am so excited to continue my study in these areas, including assessment and rehabilitation of human mobility problems under Dr. King’s supervision.  I feel that combining a unique research angle with a training program will meet my professional needs. I am eager to combine my work experiences with these research and programs and make use of the facilities the university has put together for these projects.

Kuanting Chen (MS) – Taiwan. I graduated from Baylor University with an exercise physiology degree in 2018. Prior to the master program, I worked as a strength and conditioning coach for youth and adult population. I have tremendous interest in structural and functional asymmetry in human movement as well as sport data science. My next goal is to pursue a PhD degree where I develop more comprehensive data analysis methods in sports and produce meaningful research in movement asymmetry.

Undergraduate

Abby Frazier – The Woodlands, TX. I am a Movement Science major graduating in May of 2023. My goal is to attend physical therapy school to earn a DPT degree following my graduation. Currently, I am most interested in working in sports or pediatric physical therapy. My research in the lab has allowed me to explore topics that closely relate to both of those specialties. Outside of my academics, I love to travel, watch and play sports, and spend time with family and friends!

Diego Rivera – Frisco, Texas. I’m a movement science major (class of 2023) entering my fourth year of working under Dr. King in the motor behavior lab. My interests are related to how utilization of devices, functional anatomy, and learning theories can improve performance in sport and clinical settings. Outside of academics, I enjoy competing and teaching swing and other partner dances.

Undergraduates

• 2022
  • Daniel Triana
• 2021
  • Rachel Ryman
  • Sara Harris
  • Tanner Robinson
•  2019-2020
  • Max Butcher
  • Jack Dinnie
  • Jayne Kernodle
  • Josie Mootz
  • Max Power
  • Brooke Wertzberger
• 2018-2019
  • Curtis Hansen
  • Joel Petri
• 2017-2018
  • Dylan Hoover

Graduates

• Kelci Hannan – May ‘18 (PhD, Utah State University)
• Hadley Lindley – December ’18 (pursuing medical programs)
• Jacey Baldridge – May ‘20 (clinical research assistant)