Dr. Musselman's research aims to develop new ways to restore movement and function in adults and children living with damage to their brain or spinal cord. Her research has focused on helping people living with spinal cord injury, stroke and cerebral palsy improve their ability to walk, prevent falls, and use their arms in daily activities. She studies how electrical stimulation of the nervous system can be added to exercise in the clinic or home, and helps clinicians learn to use these new technologies in their practice.
Through the lens of people with spinal cord injury: Using photos and discussion to prevent falls
Study Status: completed
Institute: KITE Research Institute
Study Purpose: This study was done to determine the effects of taking photos and participating in balance confidence discussions on falling and fear of falling.
Background: People living with spinal cord injury (SCI) are at risk of falling. Falling may result in injury and a fear of falling, along with a financial impact on health care systems. Photo-taking and discussion led to a deeper understanding of these concerns and promoted positive change.
Study Methods: There were two groups: 1) people with SCI who walk, 2) people who use wheelchairs. Each group had four virtual focus group meetings, two photo assignments, and two individual interviews with a researcher over 6 weeks. At various time points throughout the study, participants completed surveys and questionnaires related to quality of life, participation in the community, fear of falling, and balance confidence. Falls were tracked for 3 months before and after the 6-week program.
Key Findings: Participants’ confidence in preventing a fall did not change after the 6-week intervention. People with SCI who walk showed improvement in participation after the intervention. People with SCI who walk improved their participation in the community after the 6-week photovoice intervention.
Health Conditions:
Spinal cord injuries/diseases
Evaluation of electrical stimulation and balance training in people with lived experience
Study Status: active
Institute: KITE Research Institute
Study Purpose: This study is being done to determine if electrical stimulation and balance training can improve balance in people living with a spinal cord injury or stroke.
Background: Falls are common for people living with a spinal cord injury or stroke. Falls may result in injury and a fear of falling, which may restrict their movement and daily activities.
Study Methods: Tests of balance, balance confidence, strength, pressure sensation, and joint awareness will be done at various time points throughout the study. Lab tests, which involve standing as still as possible and leaning as far as possible in different directions, are also done at various time points. The balance training with electrical stimulation runs for 6 weeks (3x per week, 1 hour per session).
Health Conditions:
Spinal cord injuries/diseases, Stroke
- Assistant Professor, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto
- Faculty Member, Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto
- Adjunct Professor, School of Physical Therapy, University of Saskatchewan
- Research Associate, Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region, Saskatchewan