Medicine for Sports and Performing Arts
- Molecular mechanobiology research
- Arthroscopy for the biomechanics and regenerative medicine for musclo-skeletal tissue
- Human dynamics and performance research
- Sports Research Innovation Project (SRIP; sponsored by the Japan Sports Agency)
Our goals
1. RTP: Return-to-Play
New treatments and diagnostics for recovery from sports-related injuries
2. IP: Injury Prevention
New preventative measures against sports-related injuriese
3. HP: High Performance
Enhancing performance in sports
4. HC: Health Care
Promotion and improvment of Health
Sports Medical Research for Future Science
Sport is understood as all forms of physical activity that contribute to health (UNESCO, QPE 2015). However, because of its high intensity, sports can also cause injury through trauma, and excessive physical activity risks chronic disorders such as overuse syndrome. Conversely, insufficient exercise risks decreases in bone mass and muscle mass along with obesity and overall poor health.
Our laboratory conducts basic and clinical research for better diagnosis, treatment and prevention of injuries related to sports and other physical activities.
Molecular mechanobiology research (Osaka University Toyonaka campus)
We are conducting basic molecular mechanobiology research using a number of model systems including cells related to movement (bone, muscle, cartilage, etc.) and nerves, three dimensional tissue cultures, mechanically-stimulated cultures, and large and small animals.
Figure1 Collagen-based meniscal substitute
Figure2 3D Dynamically Stimulated Culture System
Arthroscopic Regenerative Medicine and Biomechanics Research (Osaka University Suita Campus)
To develop new treatments for joints, we have been collaborating with industry to develop a new collagen-based meniscal treatment. We have already tested this technology on animals and are now undergoing clinical study.
Human Performance and Dynamic Movement (Suita Campus)
To improve performance through rehabilitation and training, we are researching body mechanics and dynamics through groud reaction forces, motion analysis and other methods.
Figure3 Research for Human Kinematic Mechanics Performance
SRIP (Sports Research Innovation Project 2015 – 2019)
Japan will soon host a series of international sporting events including the 2019 Rugby World Cup, the 2020 Olympics and the 2021 World Masters Games. These events have put priority on sports medicine and research that prevents injury and enhances performance. Along with the Osaka University Medical School, we are working with the Graduate School of Information Science, Graduate School of Engineering, Cyber Media Center and others for this purpose.
Figure 4 Outline of Sports Research Innovation Project (SRIP) sponsored by Japan Sports Agency
