July 9, 2003

State Board Approves Boise State Center for Biomechanics

A newly established Center for Orthopaedic and Biomechanics Research at Boise State University received approval from the Idaho State Board of Education in June. The Center will enhance the research and programs already in progress or planned by Boise State researchers from several departments, including mechanical engineering, kinesiology, biology, radiological sciences and respiratory therapy, in partnership with area physicians and other health-care providers. In one example of collaborative effort, mechanical engineering professors Joe Guarino and Steve Tennyson have used a computer-controlled rapid prototyping machine to model skeletal structures of pediatric patients. The models have helped Intermountain Orthopaedics surgeons Kevin Shea and Howard King plan surgeries more precisely to improve the outcome for their young patients. Examples of other plans by the Center’s associates are research on sports injuries, gait abnormalities and medical imaging, as well as performance assessment of athletes and educational outreach programs. The College of Engineering has provided space for the new center in a lab coordinated by mechanical engineering professor Michelle Sabick. The Center for Orthopaedic and Biomechanics Research is directed by mechanical engineering department chair John Gardner and kinesiology professor Ron Pfeiffer. -30- Contact John Gardner or Michelle Sabick Mechanical engineering (208) 426-5702 or (208) 426-5653 Media contact Pat Pyke communications and marketing (208) 426-1987 ppyke@boisestate.edu

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