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Project # 30
Decoupling Pain and Regeneration: A Time-Sensitive Gait Scoring System for Detecting the Drivers of Functional Recovery
| Team Lead: | Sumaiya Rifat |
| Other Team Members: | Uyen Pham |
| Faculty Advisor(s): | Dr. Liping Tang |
| Department: | BE |
| Project Type: | Other Undergraduate |
| Title: | Decoupling Pain and Regeneration: A Time-Sensitive Gait Scoring System for Detecting the Drivers of Functional Recovery |
| Abstract: | Gait analysis is widely used in preclinical musculoskeletal research to evaluate functional recovery post-injury, yet a critical question remains unanswered: whether improved gait reflects tissue regeneration or simply reduced pain. This ambiguity limits the ability of researchers to accurately assess the recovery mechanisms post-treatment. To combat inconsistencies in gait conclusions, we developed a time-sensitive, standardized gait system that enables investigators to use gait as a non-invasive tool to distinguish temporary pain effects from structural regeneration. Using a labral tear model, we measured stride length, step length, paw area ratio, and paw angle at 3 and 6 weeks post-surgery. At 3 weeks, improvement was primarily dominated by cromolyn, an anti-inflammatory agent, which was reflected by a significant improvement in paw area ratio and paw angle, indicating reduced pain-related guarding. In contrast, at 6 weeks, the PDGF Adhesive, an established regenerative treatment, demonstrated sustained recovery through improved stride and step length, consistent with restored mechanical stability and superior tissue integrity. This framework transforms gait analysis into a standardized method that uniquely identifies between pain-based responses and regenerative tissue. |
| Poster: | View Poster #30 (PDF) |
| Judges Scoring: | Submit Evaluation (judges only) |