Faculty Projects
Faculty Projects
The Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Research (CNMSR) at the University of South Florida focuses on understanding and treating chronic pain, movement disorders, and musculoskeletal dysfunction through advanced biomechanics, neuroscience, and rehabilitation science. Its researchers develop innovative diagnostic tools and personalized therapies using motion analysis, wearable technology, and translational clinical trials to improve long-term outcomes for patients.
Translational and Clinical Research
CNMSR places a strong emphasis on translational research, aiming to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications. The Center fosters multidisciplinary collaboration among experts in neurosurgery, physical therapy, chiropractic medicine, and biomedical engineering to ensure that research findings are directly applicable to patient care. Clinical trials and pilot studies are conducted to evaluate new diagnostic tools, therapeutic interventions, and rehabilitation technologies. The Center also supports the development of patentable innovations such as spine braces and isoinertial measurement devices for lower extremities, which are designed to enhance recovery and prevent injury. Through these efforts, CNMSR ensures that its scientific advancements translate into meaningful improvements in healthcare delivery.
Dance Medicine and Science Certificate Program
At the CNSMR, the study of neuromusculoskeletal health is one of many core focus areas. One of the ongoing projects our affiliate faculty lab-member, Dr. Merry Lynn Morris, is the Dance Medicine and Science Certificate Program at University of South Florida.
Dr. Merry Lynn Morris directs an undergraduate curriculum focused on the applied study of neuromusculoskeletal health in dance athletes. The program equips students with knowledge and skills in injury mechanisms and management, fitness and movement assessment, musculoskeletal adaptations, mental health considerations, research-informed practices in dance medicine and science, and the role of dance itself as a wellness practice. Recent graduates have been accepted to graduate school in dance science as well as medical school and physical therapy programs.
Movement Disorders and Biomechanics
A core research area at CNMSR involves the study of movement disorders and the biomechanics of human motion. Researchers use advanced motion capture systems, such as Vicon’s Nexus 2, to analyze gait and joint mechanics with high precision. Dr. Teran Wodzinski, for example, focuses on how gait biomechanics influence the progression of knee osteoarthritis, particularly in women with knee hyperextension.
Her studies incorporate 3D motion analysis and remote monitoring of knee kinematics to evaluate the effectiveness of gait retraining interventions. This research not only informs personalized rehabilitation strategies but also contributes to the development of wearable technologies and feedback systems that support long-term mobility and joint health.
The Future of Injury Prevention: AI-Powered Mouthguards
Artificial intelligence could soon transform an athlete’s mouthguard into a life-saving device, dramatically improving the detection of brain injuries and advancing safety far beyond professional sports. Lab member Dr. John Templeton is leading this effort through the development of a smart mouthguard designed for real-world impact. The custom-fit device integrates multiple sensors that monitor not only head movement, but also postural control and autonomic function. By measuring real-time bite force alongside indicators such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and bod 
y temperature, the mouthguard enables a more personalized understanding of head injury risk. AI algorithms analyze the vast streams of data collected, distinguishing routine impacts from potentially concussive events with a level of precision that exceeds human assessment alone. The result is a more accurate, individualized approach to identifying and managing brain injuries.
While the technology is designed to enhance athlete safety, its applications extend well beyond sports. The smart mouthguard holds promise for use among military personnel, older adults, and workers in high-risk environments. Through this work, Dr. Templeton is advancing intelligent wearable technologies that redefine how head injuries are detected and prevented.