INSPIRE Lab

The word “inspire” means to stimulate or encourage strong motivation or desire to act, often by instilling positive feelings, ideas, or creativity. Inspire can also refer to the process of influencing actions, thoughts, or emotions in a meaningful. Indeed, this word parallels the qualities of our research program to support people living with paralysis. The INSPIRE lab focuses on…

redefining Independence

Returning to daily life after a spinal cord injury requires adapting to new challenges and finding innovative ways to regain independence. The INSPIRE Lab is dedicated to researching interventions that can support individuals in achieving greater autonomy. Our studies focus on understanding mobility, environmental adaptations, and supportive devices that make home and community living more accessible and empowering.

Building Research Connections

Scientific progress is driven by collaboration and community. The INSPIRE Lab fosters partnerships between researchers, clinicians, and individuals living with spinal cord injuries. Through our studies in this lab and community outreach with the Travis Roy Center, we gather invaluable insights that drive innovation and improve quality of life. Together, we’re creating a supportive network that champions shared experiences, mutual learning, and collective progress in SCI research.

Advancing Technological Solutions

Embracing technology has revolutionized the landscape for individuals with paralysis. Advances in technology are empowering people to defy limitations and unlock new possibilities. Many of these technologies can be an ally in reclaiming independence, mobility, and a sense of purpose. At the INSPIRE Lab, we are developing and testing cutting-edge rehabilitative technologies that help enhance motor function and independence. Our goal is to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world applications that improve daily living for individuals with SCI.

participating in research

Participating in research is a beacon of knowledge for countless individuals navigating the challenges of paralysis. Each study is a step closer to unraveling the mysteries of paralysis, offering the promise of improved quality of life for ourselves and future generations. Research participation offers purpose, empowerment, and the unwavering determination to turn the tide against SCI. The INSPIRE Lab supports research that will help improve functional independence and quality of life for people with SCI.

bridging gaps

We are bridging the gap between groundbreaking research and real-world clinical impact, connecting patients from across the globe and the United States to cutting-edge technologies that enhance recovery and independence for those with SCI.

Involved Participants

National Communities Served

Global Communities Served

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community

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our visionary team

We are people with lived experiences. We are clinicians, engineers, and scientists. We are here to work with you.

Randy trumbower, PT, PhD

Principal Investigator

Chris Tuthill, PhD

Lead Engineer

Angela Link, PT, DPT, NCS

Physical Therapist

Chloe Slocum, MD, MPH

Physician Scientist

Julia Wall, PT, PhD

Research Physical Therapist

Lynn McCane, PhD

Research Fellow

Angie Hibberd, OT, OTD

Occupational Therapist

Noah Piazza, BS

Clinical Research Coordinator

Sachin Patel, BA

Research Assistant

Naama Nijk, Md

Research Assistant

Tess B. Meier, PhD

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Will Muter, BS

Research Coordinator

Katie Schramm, PT, DPT, NCS

Physical Therapist

Rachel Brody, PT, DPT

Physical Therapist

Stella Barth, BA

Medical Student

Gail Monaghan, PT, ScD, AAOMPT, OCS

Physical Therapist

Partnerships