Nathaniel Bates, PhD

About

Biography

My primary research area focuses on biomechanics as they relate to orthopaedic joint injuries. My research covers each the identification of risk factor that increase injury risk and can be modified to reduce probability of future injury, modeling of intra-articular mechanics during simulated injury events, and opportunities to improve the efficacy of repair constructs and techniques. Ultimately, the objective of this work is to optimize joint function both pre- and post-injury to improve clinical outcomes for the orthopaedic population. A significant portion of my work has contributed to the development of realistic in vitro simulation models that emulate the dynamic loading environment of the knee joint during athletic tasks and injury events. These models provide objective data and direct quantification of mechanical contributors to deleterious joint conditions. Resultant data can then be used to modify biomechanical behaviors to minimize risk of damage to joints and orthopaedic constructs.

My secondary research area is the optimization of neuromuscular control relative to joint function. Injury and surgery events lead to disruptions of native pathways for how the brain controls mechanical function of a joint and its surrounding structures. These disruptions can limit a patient’s ability to function normally and place them at increased relative risk for future injury. Quantified understanding of how these disruptions impact muscle activation and control can lead to advancements that optimize both surgical technique and post-surgical rehabilitation. Optimization of joint control has been shown to improve outcomes both in the prevention of primary orthopaedic injury as well as subsequent orthopaedic injury following return to activity.

Credentials

Research