Human performance laboratory

The Human Performance Laboratory is one of the core facilities designed to support research activities within the Wellcome Trust Clinical Research Facility. Supported by the research nurse team, it incorporates:

• Gait analysis using Kistler force platform. It is envisaged that this system will be upgraded to several permanent flush mounted platforms and 3D motion analysis
• ISOCOM Dynamometer for isokinetic and isometric testing using single joint and multi-joint attachments. Attachments for knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip all available
• BIOPAC MP150 system for with up to 16 channels for signal processing including EMG and accelerometer
• Infra-red triggered Sprint Timer System for accurate outcome measures of walking and sit-to-stand time. Used in conjunction with set of indoor stairs
• Biodex SD balance system for whole body balance assessment and training
• Lumbar Motion Monitor to measure thoraco- lumbar range of motion, velocity and proprioception
• Oxycon Pro ergospirometry system with treadmill, ergocycle and upper limb cycle for measuring exercise tolerance, lung function and stress ECG
• Radiometer TcPO2 measuring system
• Space for examination and exercise interventions

The WTCRF has recently signed a Service Level Agreement with the University of Salford’s School of Health Sciences. In the national Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 2008 more than 80% of the School’s research was ranked as of “international quality”. The Service Level Agreement will ensure that all the equipment within the CRF’s Human Performance Labs will be correctly maintained and calibrated. It will also serve to provide advice for writing protocols, in order to benefit our investigators.