The Lifestyle Modifications research team focuses on exercise, nutritional and behavioral modifications that impact musculoskeletal health, physical function and mobility. The goals of this research are to better understand how musculoskeletal health and physical function affect the overall health of the population and how chronic diseases impact musculoskeletal health.
Who We Are
Our mission is to strengthen musculoskeletal health through research on exercise, nutrition and behavior. We aim to identify effective lifestyle strategies that enhance physical function and mobility across diverse populations.
We envision a world where healthy habits — grounded in scientific evidence — empower individuals to preserve and improve bone and muscle health, reducing chronic disease and enhancing overall wellbeing.
In 2024, team members authored 45 total publications. Four of these were in journals with an impact factor of 10 or above.
At least two members of the Lifestyle Modification Team have received major honors or held leadership roles:
- President, Secretary/Treasurer and Councilor of the ASBMR
- Louis V. Avioli Founders Award
- William F. Neuman Award
- Fellow of the ASBMR
- IU Trustees Teaching Award
Team Leaders
Indiana University School of Medicine Faculty Investigators
Tarah J. Ballinger, MD
Vera Bradley Foundation Scholar in Breast Cancer Research
Robyn K. Fuchs, PhD
Adjunct Associate Professor of Anatomy, Cell Biology & Physiology
Charalampos Lyssikatos, MD
Assistant Research Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery
Ranjani N. Moorthi, M.D., MPH
Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine
Stuart J. Warden, PhD
Professor of Physical Therapy, School of Health & Human Sciences
Carol A. Witczak, PhD
Associate Professor of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiology
Indiana University Faculty Members - Other Schools
Annabel Biruete, PhD
Assistant Professor of Nutrition & Dietetics
Pei-Shiun Chang, PhD, RN
Assistant Professor of Community Health Systems
Thomas Fisher, PhD
Dean Vera Z. Dwyer College of Health Sciences
Monica Hubal, PhD
Associate Professor of Kinesiology
Niki Munk, PhD
Interim Chair; Associate Professor of Health Sciences