Current research projects include the effects of exercise on levels of community integration in the spinal cord population and ergonomic intervention with individuals with work-related injuriesof the upper extremities. Professional interests in basic mechanisms underlying the organization of the spinal cord in health and disease. Current research projects include evaluation of spinal pathways in spinal cord injury, constraint induced therapy on clients post stroke, and the assessment of motor neuron pool organization in humans. Professional interests in motor behavior problems of elderly clients, particularly those with chronic balance problems, Parkinson's disease, frailty and stroke. Current research projects include the effects of resistive exercise on the coordination of clients with spasticity, the effects of constraint induced therapy on clients post stroke, and effective interventors to improve balance and gait in frail elders.
Professional interests are in assistive technology and aging.
Adaptation of skeletal muscle to training, detraining and immunosuppressive drugs, and the causes of and treatment for dyspnea. Current research includes effects of inspiratory muscle training on dyspnea, effects of respiratory muscle training for ventilator dependent patients. Professional interests are in physical dysfunction, exercise physiology, motor control, ergonomics, and upper extremity injuries. Current research projects include upper extremity strength and function in individuals with spinal cord injury, and sincerity of effort of grip strength in individuals with cumulative trauma injury. Dr. Shechtman is the research coordinator for the Department of Occupational Therapy.