OHSU’s Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation research programs emphasize research that can go from the lab to the clinic and general population. Our basic science, clinical trials and epidemiologic research advances knowledge about biologic and genetic mechanisms of disease, engineering for skeletal tissue repair and regeneration, long-term patient outcomes and prevention of musculoskeletal diseases.

Basic science

Our basic research laboratories focus on musculoskeletal biology and biomechanics. We conduct research on stem cell biology, tissue engineering, molecular genetics, extracellular matrix biochemistry and biomechanical testing for novel orthopaedic implants. In addition, we conduct developmental genetics research, focusing on the molecular mechanisms regulating limb and genitourinary development.

Clinical trials

Our clinical trials benefit patients by making discoveries that may lead to new treatments, devices or rehabilitation programs. Our clinical research focuses on understanding the biology of musculoskeletal diseases, creating the best outcomes for patients and evaluating new treatments.

Epidemiology

Our epidemiology research benefits public health by defining the natural history of musculoskeletal disorders, identifying risk factors that can be reduced with treatment or lifestyle changes and discovering mechanisms of disease.

Our department focuses on risk factors for osteoporotic fractures and orthopaedic spine conditions associated with low back pain. Our epidemiologic research involves epidemiologic methods and statistical analysis. We also design investigations of biologic mechanisms and clinical relevance.