University of Alberta

Brain wave-powered tech allows Canadian kids ‘trapped in their own bodies’ to play

Brain-computer interface technology allows eight-year-old Giselle Alnaser to use her brain waves to move her wheelchair and play at the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, Tuesday, January 9, 2024. THE CANADIAN … READ MORE

Researchers find new way to deliver treatment to infants at risk of cerebral palsy

Drug-release technology carries medication to the site of perinatal brain injury, protecting infants from harmful side-effects. U of A researchers have found a safer way to deliver critical anti-inflammatory medication to newborns at … READ MORE

Can’t find a family doctor in Alberta? Training more medical students is not the silver bullet

The number of students choosing family medicine is declining in Alberta. While the increase in medical school spots in Alberta is much needed to support a struggling health-care system, the realities of solving the family medicine … READ MORE

Canada first to develop medical standards to keep kids from suffering pain in silence

OTTAWA – The Health Standards Organization has released a new set of guidelines to help hospital workers manage children’s pain — particularly for those who can’t communicate when they’re hurt. An empty cot … READ MORE

Discovery may explain why more females than males get knee osteoarthritis

New genetic research could lead to a blood test, better preventive strategies and even potential drug treatments. Surgery professor Adetola Adesida and his team tested bioengineered cartilage in simulated low gravity to find out why … READ MORE

Pandemic disproportionately affects those with disabilities and chronic health conditions

‘The pandemic has exacerbated pre-existing inequalities,’ says UTM professor David Pettinicchio, who launched a national online survey of 1,027 Canadians with disabilities and chronic health conditions to find out how … READ MORE

How people with Type 2 diabetes can get the benefits of exercise while reducing the risks

Researchers recommend three simple steps to start an exercise routine while reducing the risk of low blood sugar. By planning ahead, choosing appropriate activities and setting achievable goals, people with Type 2 diabetes can improve … READ MORE

FDA approves new drug to treat common form of muscular dystrophy based on research from U of A scientist

Created using synthetic DNA, viltolarsen is an excellent example of precision medicine. The U.S. FDA has approved a drug called viltolarsen to treat Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The drug was developed based on research by U of A … READ MORE

Mechanics, mobility, and motion capture: From Pixar to reality

When you watch a Pixar movie, have you ever wondered why the characters’ movements and facial expressions appear so vivid and realistic? Illustration by Eric Chung for rehabINK By Yilina Liubaoerjijin, John Christy Johnson, & … READ MORE

U of A lab developing wearable technology to prevent athletic injuries

Top student from China lends programming expertise to develop sensors and 3D avatar. Researchers at the University of Alberta are developing a wearable technology they say will help with athletic assessment and rehabilitation. Scott … READ MORE

Kids with cerebral palsy achieve goals at Edmonton ‘brain camp’

At the beginning of “brain camp” each of the eight kids attending set a goal to work toward. For Tacee French, the goal is to strengthen her right hand so she can lead a cow by a rope. Danika Dobson, 9, right, attends a summer … READ MORE

Surprise finding could lead to new MS treatments

A discovery is providing hope of a new therapeutic target in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients that could one day be used to prevent the symptoms and progression of the disease. By removing a protein called calnexin in mice, … READ MORE

Experimental therapy could boost stroke recovery

Spinal injection and rehabilitation efforts shown to increase connections between the brain and spinal cord. Anna Wiersma and Ian Winship found they were able to enhance stroke recovery in an animal model by inducing amplified … READ MORE

Uncovering origins of developmental brain disorders

UAlberta research gives new insight into healthy brain development. Recent research discoveries in the development of brain disorders could pave the way to new therapies for treating seizures, and even some children with autism, says … READ MORE

Anti-gravity treadmill has physio patients walking on air

The AlterG is an anti-gravity treadmill being used for physiotherapy at the University of Alberta. Mariya Oleinikova (left) uses the AlterG anti-gravity treadmill under the watchful eye of physical therapy professor Kim Dao. Richard … READ MORE

Exercise protocol improves physical function in patients with hip, knee OA

Implementation of an exercise protocol was linked with improved physical function in patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis, according to results presented here. GLA:D Canada. Glen Sather Sports Medicine Clinic, University of … READ MORE

Edmonton researchers help young stroke patients regain mobility

One in every 1,000 babies suffer from a stroke either in utero or shortly after birth. Edmonton researchers are trying to help those young child stroke patients regain mobility and learn how to walk. Linda Hoang with files from Carmen … READ MORE

$54.5M gift creates a brighter future for children and women

Largest single donation to the University of Alberta means better health outcomes. The sound of footsteps ascending the stairs heralds six-year-old triplets David, Ryan and Liam Ennis. They spill into the living room laughing and … READ MORE

Miniature magnetic resonance in Edmonton

Microscopic gem the key to new development in magnetic lab-on-a-chip technology. Mark Freeman (seated), with Fatemeh Fani Sani (middle row left), Joseph Losby (top right) and team members have discovered a route to lab-on-a-chip … READ MORE