FANCY taking a pair of crutches ‘for a spin’, all
in the name of science?
Researcher Ben Perry, of Victoria University’s Institute of Sport, Exercise and Active Living, is seeking volunteers to walk with crutches as part of a study into muscle wastage and recovery.
People taking part will need to spend three weeks on crutches and undergo exercise tests and muscle biopsies but will be re-trained and receive some financial compensation.
“The upside is you will probably be offered a seat on the train,” Mr Perry said.
“In all seriousness, this is important research. We need to know what happens to muscles that aren’t used for a period of time and how they change, then how to build them back up again.
Most studies on muscle activity have used people with spinal cord injuries. We want to determine how inactivity affects muscle strength and power.”
Anybody interested should phone study co-supervisor Dr Itamar Levinger on 99195343 or Mr Perry on 0414600986 or e-mail ben.perry@live.vu.edu.au.
