Our approach to acquired brain injury research
The Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Research Program at Shepherd Center aims to advance the understanding of brain injury to better treat ABI patients, improve their health and functioning, community participation, and vocational opportunities. Our research encompasses a broad range of disciplines and methodologies, and we collaborate with clinicians and professionals in physiatry, allied health, neuropsychology, social science, and the humanities. Our projects explore and investigate brain function, rehabilitation treatment and services, and life after brain injury that may be categorized as:
- Investigations of brain functioning and processes. Advancing the understanding of neurological processes to develop effective treatments.
- Descriptive studies identifying predictors of outcomes. By working with patients and families, we assess factors that may be determinative of positive outcomes. Our findings help us develop interventions and define rehabilitation goals that may improve patient outcomes.
- Interventions in rehabilitation practice. Through our research studies, we can better determine which interventions improve patient outcomes and then translate our findings into clinical practice.