What brought me to MUN? What keeps me at MUN?
Receiving the Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation Professorship in Biomechanics was the spark that brought me to MUN and NL. On arriving from Ontario, it was immediately clear that this place really does have a bit of magic. MUN has lived up to its solid reputation and I have been so impressed with the warm and collaborative nature of the staff, faculty and students. The fresh air, proximity to the ocean and the scenic hiking trails have only added to my experience.
Training:
I currently have one position available for a Master’s student. Interested applicants can contact me directly at
ddecarvalho@mun.ca with their CV and unofficial transcripts.
Keen volunteers looking to gain experience in biomechanical lab techniques are always welcome. Please contact me to set up a meeting.
Research/Teaching Summary:
Societal awareness of the dangers of sedentary lifestyles is starting to grow. Thanks to the results of recent epidemiology studies, the media has been quick to highlight sitting as “
the new smoking” and the pastime that “
is killing you”. Slightly less sensational, yet equally important with respect to health and injury, is the relationship between sitting and low back pain (LBP). Directly related to decreased productivity, decreased quality of life and high health care costs, LBP might be the first of many negative health outcomes to be experienced by sedentary workers
. Currently, there is still much to be learned about sitting induced back pain, especially in regards to pathways of pain and injury and in the context of older and clinical populations.
These questions have motivated my research program: focusing on the biomechanics of the human spine, especially in seated postures, in the context of:
·
injury mechanisms (acute and repetitive tissue overload, strain of passive tissues by creep, and altered neuromuscular control)
·
treatment options (spine manipulation, stretching, soft tissue therapy and exercise)
·
prevention strategies (movement breaks, ergonomic aids, alternative work environments, early diagnostic indicators)
I value learning through experience. This lead me to complete a Certificate in University Teaching (University of Waterloo) and sparked an interest in the study of case-based learning and other experiential teaching methods. Whether in the classroom, laboratory or clinic I believe there is always an opportunity for both teachers and students to learn something new.
Awards:
Newfoundland and Labrador Chiropractic Association Chiropractor of the Year (2017)
Association of Canadian Ergonomists Founders Award (2013)
CIHR Doctoral Research Award (2008-2011)
Canadian Chiropractic Association Young Investigator Award (2010)
Foundation for Chiropractic Education and Research Fellowship Award (2008)