Research

Research in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) at Indiana University School of Medicine makes life-changing recovery possible after injury and illness, focusing on diagnoses of brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and musculoskeletal injuries. Through state-of-the-art facilities and innovative approaches, IU’s world-class researchers help people walk, communicate, think, strengthen relationships and reclaim their lives.

The department’s investigators mentor residents, fellows and students through innovative research projects, fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration and shaping the next generation of clinician-scientists dedicated to improving lives through science and compassionate care.

Participate in Research

Want to help advance breakthrough treatments that could transform recovery for millions? By joining our research, you’ll contribute to life-changing discoveries while potentially gaining access to innovative treatments and expert care.

Research Highlights

1 of 16
nationally recognized Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Model Systems centers
33 years
of conducting research and rebuilding lives
>$10 million
in annual grant funding

Our specialized research programs advance care and create hope

illustration of a doctor clasping the hand of a patient in a wheelchair

Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems

Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems (TBIMS) is a program dedicated to improving care and outcomes for people with TBI, their families and their communities. As one of only 16 federally funded centers nationwide, IU School of Medicine is recognized for its national leadership in TBI care and research.

Impacts

  • Collected data from over 22,000 individuals with TBI as well as their caregivers to contribute to the largest longitudinal study of TBI in the world

  • Developed new tools for improvements in diagnosis, clinical guidelines and treatments for recovery and long-term health

  • Published more than 1,000 publications, guides and fact sheets for patients, families, caregivers and professionals

illustration of a therapist working with a patient in supportive equipment to re-learn how to walk

Locomotor Recovery

The Locomotor Recovery Center pioneers new treatments to restore mobility for people affected by brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury and multiple sclerosis. 

Impacts

  • Delivering advanced high-intensity training to improve walking speed, balance and mobility outcomes

  • Translated research into practice to help patients achieve greater independence and community participation after injury 

  • Providing multi-condition expertise to serve as a specialized resource for complex neurological rehabilitation

illustration of a doctor and a caregiver discussing a patient care plan

Chronic Disease Management for Traumatic Brain Injury

Many individuals with TBI experience long-term symptoms that persist beyond six months. The BeHEALTHY project is developing a comprehensive, person-centered care management model to better support people with TBI, their caregivers and healthcare professionals.

Impacts

  • Leading national collaboration to develop the first comprehensive chronic disease management model specifically designed for TBI 

  • Addressing critical care gaps in long-term TBI care to develop optimal outcomes 

  • Secured federal recognition and funding to advance understanding of chronic TBI as a lifelong health condition requiring ongoing management

illustration of two health care providers reviewing a brain scan together

Brain Rehabilitation, Advanced Imaging and Neuroscience

The Center for Brain Rehabilitation, Advanced Imaging and Neuroscience (C-BRAIN) leads interdisciplinary research to improve clinical care and drive the leading edge of translational research for acquired brain injury.

Impacts

  • Bringing together scientists and clinicians to integrate advanced neuroimaging with other disciplines to research and improve outcomes for acquired brain injury

  • Furthering personalized rehabilitation through the study of genomics and biomarkers in TBI

  • Offering comprehensive, multidisciplinary care and rehabilitation programs for individuals with brain injuries, including outpatient, residential and home support

Have an inquiry?

If you have a question about one of our research studies or investigators, contact the Office of Strategic Communications.

Recent News

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IU School of Medicine researchers awarded $715,000 Department of Defense grant to improve treatment for mild traumatic brain injury

Indiana University School of Medicine and National Intrepid Center of Excellence researchers are partnering together to study a new treatment method for traumatic brain injury thanks to a grant from the United States Department of Defense, Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs.

Flora Hammond and Dawn Neumann examine data in their research center

Researchers developing model to help people with traumatic brain injury overcome long-term challenges

Researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine are hoping to develop a new model to help those who experience a traumatic brain injury (TBI) recover and better manage challenges that result from their injury.

Flora Hammond and George Hornby work with a patient in the locomotor recovery center

High-intensity step training boosts stroke survivors’ walking skills

High-intensity step training that mimics real-world conditions may better improve walking ability in stroke survivors compared to traditional low-impact training, according to new research.