Facility overview
The Balance and Vestibular Research Facility is an integral component of the School of Physiotherapy.
Research carried out in this facility system contributes to the areas of falls prevention, physical activity for neurological and musculoskeletal conditions, and in the better understanding of both the risk factors and rehabilitation strategies for injuries such as concussion and occupational health related conditions.
The facility provides a clinical service and contributes to teaching at an undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Strategic goals
The research facility is based on 4 goals:
- Cutting edge research
The Equitest system allows us to understand one's ability to control balance when the available sensor information is challenged - Pathways to commercialisation
The facility has a number of resources able to be used for commercial use - Clinical partnerships
The facility helps to provide the tools for effective and informed clinical decision making. Working inter-professionally with clinicians helps us to provide the best outcomes for patients - Strong and enduring collaborations
Collaborations are a key to the success of our research. We believe in working with our community partners to develop translational research
Current and recent research projects
- Sensory status of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI): hearing, vision and vestibular function
- Dynamic balance control in children with and without strabismus: a pilot study
- Concurrent validity of the Mini-BESTest in people with vestibular dysfunction
- Exergaming for strength and balance
- Factors associated with risk of falling among older adults with knee osteoarthritis
- Manual therapy, concussion, and cervicogenic headaches
- Balance and postural control in healthy older adults involved in a recreational physical activity
- Postural stability in people with Alzheimer's Disease
Balance, dizziness and vertigo clinic
Read more about this Clinical service offered through the School of Physiotherapy Clinic
Facility lead
Dr Prasath Jayakaran
Prasath's broad research interest is towards understanding the neurophysiological basis of postural balance and motor control.
His current research interests are exploring the reorganisation of sensory-motor cortex, with a focus on individuals with a non-neurological impairment such as an amputation.
Prasath developed his interest in peripheral sensory information processing and its influence on balance control from his experience as a clinician, which led to his PhD studies on sensory information and dynamic balance in individuals with a lower limb amputation.
For any enquiries about the facility please email: Dr Prasath Jayakaran