Musculoskeletal
The musculoskeletal system plays a critical role in human mobility and overall health. However, it is often vulnerable to injury, degenerative disease and chronic conditions, which can be exacerbated by the natural aging process. These challenges place significant demands on healthcare systems worldwide, affecting individuals across all age groups and phases of life.
The Musculoskeletal Health Cluster at Empa aims to improve our understanding of the musculoskeletal system, develop innovative diagnostics and advance therapeutic cutting-edge solutions. Our research focuses on addressing the impacts of disease, injury, and aging on musculoskeletal health, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life for individuals of all ages.
Musculoskeletal Microstructure
Advanced imaging is essential in musculoskeletal research, offering detailed insights into the structure and function of tissues through high-resolution 3D visualizations. By utilizing state-of-the-art X-ray- based techniques such as micro-CT and nano-CT, we explore the intricate complexity of bones, ligaments, and fibrocartilaginous tissues at micro and nano scales.
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Biomechanics
Biomechanics plays a crucial role in musculoskeletal research, as it focuses on understanding the mechanical behavior of tissues, joints, and movements to improve diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. We integrate integrates movement analysis, mechanical testing, and computational modeling to optimize patient outcomes and enhance musculoskeletal health, and provide
innovative solutions for development of orthopaedic implants.
Materials for Orthopedics
Using cutting-edge technologies and interdisciplinary approaches, our work aims to address the diverse needs of the musculoskeletal system, from tissue regeneration to advanced prosthetic solutions. Through innovation and collaboration with both industry and hospitals, we focus on developing personalized treatments and materials that enhance functionality and improve quality of life for patients.
Translational Muscuoskeletal Biodynamics
Our primary goal is to uncover critical biomechanical markers and mechanical profiles that are unique to degenerative musculoskeletal diseases. To accomplish this, we combine in vivo multi-modality imaging with expertise in biomechanics, clinical and preclinical imaging, material science and big data management. Within this larger context, our current focus is on clinically relevant orthopedic biomechanical aspects of musculoskeletal disorders.
Challenges and Opportunities
The musculoskeletal field faces challenges in understanding tissue degeneration and healing. By integrating machine learning and computational models, we aim to develop predictive tools and practical solutions through interdisciplinary collaboration.
We are grateful for invaluable partnerships with academia, clinics, industry, regulatory and societal organizations.
Clinics: InselSpital University Hospital, Bern; Balgrist University Clinic,; Cantonal Hospital St.Gallen; Cantonal Hospital Winterthur; etc
Industry/Organizations: ……..
Our projects are supported by a diverse range of funding sources, including national and international research programs, private foundations, and industrial partnerships.