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Postdoctral research fellow, University of Salford, UK
Together with partners in the School of Computing, Science & Engineering, and at Oxford Brookes University, we have been awarded an 18-month project by the Dunhill Medical Trust to explore whether older people are putting themselves at risk of falling when ambulating using a walking frame.
Somewhat paradoxically, walking frame use has been associated with increased risk of a fall. Whilst correlation cannot be assumed to indicate causation, the finding is certainly of serious concern and this research project will address the problem. To begin with, we have developed a new approach to measuring stability of a walking frame user. The approach uses a “Smart Walker” system and associated software to derive a mechanics-based measure of stability of the whole system (frame and user considered as one). The Smart Walker records forces through each of the frame’s feet; and also uses a commercial instrumented insole to synchronously record foot pressures in the user’s shoes.
Using the Smart Walker system in home-settings, you will collect the first-ever benchmark data on older adults’ stability with a walking frame. Furthermore, you will consult with relevant stakeholders (clinicians, manufacturers and users of walking frames) on how the Smart Walker may be further developed and, in the future, be used to improve training and to develop evidence-based prescription guidelines. Findings are expected to lead to design iterations of our existing Smart Walker prototype and an improved understanding of walking frame user stability in the real world.
You will join a research team at Salford that specialises in Rehabilitation Technology and Biomedical Engineering (http://www.salford.ac.uk/research/he...al-engineering). We are a friendly and informal team of enthusiasts and are looking for a like-minded individual to join us for an 18-months fixed term contract. If your work is successful there could be opportunities to extend your employment at Salford.
Please note this vacancy will close on the date specified at 11.59pm.
Closing date: 12th June 2016
Inquiries to: Sibylle Thies
phone: +44-161-2952679
email: s.thies@Salford.ac.uk
Apply at:
Somewhat paradoxically, walking frame use has been associated with increased risk of a fall. Whilst correlation cannot be assumed to indicate causation, the finding is certainly of serious concern and this research project will address the problem. To begin with, we have developed a new approach to measuring stability of a walking frame user. The approach uses a “Smart Walker” system and associated software to derive a mechanics-based measure of stability of the whole system (frame and user considered as one). The Smart Walker records forces through each of the frame’s feet; and also uses a commercial instrumented insole to synchronously record foot pressures in the user’s shoes.
Using the Smart Walker system in home-settings, you will collect the first-ever benchmark data on older adults’ stability with a walking frame. Furthermore, you will consult with relevant stakeholders (clinicians, manufacturers and users of walking frames) on how the Smart Walker may be further developed and, in the future, be used to improve training and to develop evidence-based prescription guidelines. Findings are expected to lead to design iterations of our existing Smart Walker prototype and an improved understanding of walking frame user stability in the real world.
You will join a research team at Salford that specialises in Rehabilitation Technology and Biomedical Engineering (http://www.salford.ac.uk/research/he...al-engineering). We are a friendly and informal team of enthusiasts and are looking for a like-minded individual to join us for an 18-months fixed term contract. If your work is successful there could be opportunities to extend your employment at Salford.
Please note this vacancy will close on the date specified at 11.59pm.
Closing date: 12th June 2016
Inquiries to: Sibylle Thies
phone: +44-161-2952679
email: s.thies@Salford.ac.uk
Apply at: