Research Interests
Wendy M. Murray, PhD is currently researching is to use biomechanics as a framework for investigating how we move and control our arms and hands. The foundation for my work is the development of biomechanical models that represent accurately the mechanical actions of the upper extremity muscles. Computer simulations are integrated with quantitative anatomy, in vivo laser diffraction, medical imaging, and dynamometry to better characterize the basic functional capabilities of individual muscles and to quantify how these capabilities are altered by physical impairments or surgical interventions. Given the intricate anatomy of the upper extremity, I am interested in understanding how musculoskeletal design contributes to limb mechanics. I am especially motivated to apply this research to help improve function following injuries and impairments that affect the upper limb..
Education & Training
Education
- Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
- PhD -Biomedical Eng, 1997
- Northwestern University, Evanston, IL
- MS -Biomedical Eng, 1992
- University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN
- BS-Mathematics, 1990
Awards & Recognition
2005 Finalist, American Society of Biomechanics Clinical Biomechanics Award
2001 Finalist, International Society of Biomechanics Clinical Biomechanics Award
1999-2001 Spinal Cord Research Foundation Post-Doctoral Fellowship, PVA
1999-2000 NIDRR Mary Switzer Memorial Rehabilitation Research Post-Doctoral Fellowship 1990 Cabell Fellowship, Northwestern University
1990 Phi Beta Kappa
Recent or Important Publications
Murray, W. M., Hentz, V. R., Frid�n, J., Lieber, R.L. (in press) Variability in surgical technique for brachioradialis tendon transfer: evidence and implications. J Bone Jt Surg.
Johanson, M. E., Smaby, N., Hentz, V. R, Murray, W. M. (2006) Reduced activation in transferred brachioradialis muscles to restore lateral pinch in tetraplegia. J Hand Surg. 31:747-53.
Holzbaur, K.R.S., Murray, W. M., Delp, S. L. (2005) A model of the upper extremity for simulating musculoskeletal surgery and analyzing neuromuscular control. Ann Biomed Eng. 33:829-40.
Murray, W. M., Bryden, A. M., Kilgore, K. L., and Keith, M. W. (2002) The influence of elbow position on range of motion of the wrist following transfer of the brachioradialis to the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon. J Bone Jt Surg 84-A:2203-2210.
Murray, W. M., Buchanan, T. S., and Delp, S. L. (2002) Scaling of peak moment arms of elbow muscles with dimensions of the upper extremity. J Biomech 35:19-26.
Murray, W. M., Buchanan, T. S., and Delp, S. L. (2000) The isometric functional capacity of muscles that cross the elbow. J Biomech 33:943-952.