COURSES TAUGHT

BMS 100 - Human Health and Disease
BMS 202 - Anatomy/Physiology
BMS 202 - Anatomy/Physiology Laboratory
BMS 290 - Human Physiology
BMS 291 - Human Physiology Laboratory
BMS 310 - Basic Pathophysiology
BMS 375 - Biology of Aging

EDUCATION

Ph.D. Wayne State University, 2001
B.S. Saginaw Valley State University,1994

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Fascial release is a popular technique in the strength and performance community.  Several methods are reported to increase strength, mobility, and recovery (Body Tempering, roam rolling, Graston^©, Reflex Performance Reset, Rolfing).  My current interests are in looking at these techniques and assessing their efficacy.

The initial investigations will focus on Body Tempering.  In Body Tempering,  tstatic or shear heavy compressive forces (20-220 lbs.) are applied to tissues to stimulate changes that will stimulate adaptations that render it more resilient to heavier loads.  It is proposed that tempering initiates tissue remodeling according to Wolff’s Law, Davis Law, and the Specific Adaptations to Imposed Demands (S.A.I.D Principle).  Wolff’s Law states that mechanical stimulus stimulates bone remodeling (strengthening) and Davis’s Law states that soft tissue will adapt and heal in response to a given mechanical stress.  The S.A.I.D. principle is applied to explain that all tissue will respond to mechanical stress by increasing strength and resistance.  Tissue tempering is initially applied stimulate tissue to adapt to heavier loads in order to prevent injury.  Secondarily it is used to reduce tissue tightness and improve blood flow through local reactive hyperemia.  With these purported benefits of tempering, there is a lack of scientific data to back up the claims.

Initial investigations of the range of motion around joints will be used to assess tissue tightness, as well as the measurement through specific exercise movements.  This will be accomplished using goniometers and a linear displacement accelerometer (OpenBarbell V3). The effects of tempering on muscular strength will be assessed using a Biodex Balance System SD.

My aim is to understand and learn the methodology of tissue tempering in order to measure its effectiveness for increased mobility and muscular strength.   Future research into the other named procedures will be done and we will compare and contrast their efficacy and work to explain any results we may obtain.