Funding

Research in the ABLE Lab at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is supported by federal agencies, professional societies, industry partners, and institutional programs.

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Ongoing Sponsored Projects

Feasibility and Biomechanical Improvement of Exoskeleton Footwear with Integrated Spring Footplate during Walking in Patients with Transmetatarsal Amputation

National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR), Administration for Community Living (ACL) 

This project evaluates the feasibility and biomechanical effects of spring-integrated exoskeleton footwear on walking performance in patients following transmetatarsal amputation. 

Postoperative Biomechanical Adaptations in Gait and Plantar Pressure Metrics Following Forefoot Reconstruction in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Patients

American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS) 

This project examines postoperative gait mechanics and plantar pressure adaptations following forefoot reconstruction, with a focus on clinical and biomechanical outcomes after Keller arthroplasty.

Effectiveness of OrthoFeet Therapeutic Shoes in Reducing Foot Pain and Peak Plantar Pressure

OrthoFeet Inc. 

This project investigates the feasibility, user acceptance, and biomechanical effectiveness of therapeutic footwear and prefabricated orthotic inserts in individuals with foot pain. 

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Completed Sponsored Projects

Gait Biomechanics in Patients with Foot and Ankle Deformities

Rising STARs Award, University of Texas System

Gait Characteristics and Plantar Pressure Distribution in Diabetic Patients during Walking and Stair Climbing

Faculty Research Seed Grant, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley