DISCOVERIES THAT IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING $37,734,459 IN FUNDING FOR SPONSORED GRANTS AND CONTRACTS IN 2023–24 (2ND HIGHEST IN COLLEGE’S HISTORY) Research highlights If the minimal shoe fits, proceed with caution Information on how footwear influences running mechanics in young runners is scarce. A study led by Assistant Professor JJ Hannigan addressed this gap, considering young bodies’ rapid development and adaptation. In his study, runners ran barefoot and in minimal and traditional running shoes. Surprisingly, barefoot and minimal shoes increased impact forces, which could lead to injuries such as stress fractures and plantar fasciitis. JJ says young athletes considering minimal shoes should transition slowly with guidance from a specialist. A 3D model of a youth study participant captured by OSU-Cascades FORCE Lab researchers. IMPROVING END-OF-LIFE EXPERIENCES A study led by Research Assistant Professor Hyosin (Dawn) Kim found that patients who received home health care in the last three years of life were more likely to receive hospice care at home in their final days. The study suggests that home health care can improve end-of-life experiences for patients and their families by providing personalized care, improving symptom management, reducing hospital stays and fostering family involvement and support. Early movement helps later cognition Researchers found that early motor skills in young children with autism seem to lay the foundation for later cognitive development, suggesting that collaboration between physical and behavioral therapists could improve care. Co-authors include professors Megan MacDonald and Megan McClelland, and associate professors Will Massey and Sam Logan. PRESERVING KNOWLEDGE, PROTECTING HEALTH Through the Native Plants and Curriculum Portal, Senior Research Associate Professor Diana Rohlman and collaborators are helping Native communities better frame and respond to environmental health hazards. Explore the portal at beav.es/cMC. 14 ▴ College of Health
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