Kayla K
- Research Program Mentor
PhD candidate at University of Georgia
Expertise
Biomechanics, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, Exercise Science, Concussion, Lower Extremity Injury, Motor Control
Bio
Hi, my name is Kayla and I am a PhD student researching concussion. Concussion is an injury to your brain that can lead to many short-term symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, or sensitivity to noise or light. I focus on the long-term symptoms. After a concussion, many people go on to injure themselves during activities. These injuries include ankle sprains, hamstring strains, and ACL injuries to name a few. My research examines how people move after concussion and how this may place them at risk for injury. Outside of school, I enjoy reading a wide range of books. I also enjoy cooking and baking. I always bring in treats for my colleagues throughout the semester! I love going to the gym regularly and hiking. Lastly, I enjoy taking and editing photos whether it is of something in nature or graduation pictures for a friend!Project ideas
How does running shoe heel-to-toe-drop impact running mechanics and performance?
This review paper would examine the literature to determine how different running shoes impact running mechanics and performance. Specifically, you could examine how changes in heel-to-toe-drop influence stance time, stride length, cadence, and finishing times to name a few. You could also evaluate how different heel-to-toe-drops relate to perceptions of pain while running. In addition to being a review paper, this could also be a poster or infographic.
An Evaluation of Rotator Cuff Surgical Techniques: Advancements, Outcomes, and Best Practices
This review paper would review the history of surgical techniques used to repair the rotator cuff. You could answer questions about the best suturing techniques, surgical knots, the type of anchors used, success rates, re-rupture rates, strength outcomes, and patient satisfaction. In addition to being a paper, you could make podcasts episodes that examine how surgical techniques have evolved in the last few decades.