Biography

Ian Loram received his Ph.D. degree in postural control and applied physiology from the University of Birmingham in 2003. He worked as a Leverhulme Early Career Research Fellow and is currently Professor in Neuromuscular Control of Human Movement at Manchester Metropolitan University. His work within the Research Centre for Musculoskeletal Science & Sports Medicine (Cognitive Motor Function research group) focuses on the study of human sensorimotor control and has several threads.

One aim is to improve technology for measuring muscle action and human movement. Surface EMG is limited to superficial muscles and intramuscular EMG is impractical in most settings. Within the research group at MMU we are seeking to develop ultrasound for the measurement of muscle action and for its diagnostic value in rehabilitation and neurological conditions. We also developing marker-free video methods for analysis of head and trunk control.

A second aim is to understand the organisation of neuromuscular control. Movement results from the complex operation of all muscles. Understanding the rules governing proximal and distal muscles, and cephalo-caudal development of head and trunk control, allows better insight in the management of sensorimotor control, learning, human performance, therapy and re-education.

A third aim is to relate perceptual, decision-making and motor control processes within a mechanistic framework. This aim benefits from the application of engineering control theory to ensure rigour in identifying sensorimotor control processes and mechanisms.

A fourth aim is to relate this understanding to motor learning and rehabilitation in neurological conditions including cerebral palsy, cervical dystonia, Parkinson’s disease, neuromuscular disorders, chronic pain, fear of falling and performance-related injury.