Kristian O'Connor, Ph.D. 

Associate Professor 

Interests and Expertise
Dr. O'Connor's primary research focus is on the biomechanics of musculoskeletal injury, particularly those injuries that occur as a result of running. Current research questions include: What are the factors leading to musculoskeletal injuries experienced during running? Can we intervene to reduce the risks of these injuries? How does the neuromuscular system adapt to perturbations during cyclic movements? Does gait asymmetry contribute to injury risk?

Recent Publications
O'Connor, K.M. & Hamill, J. (2002). Does running on a crowned road predispose a runner to injury? Journal of Applied Biomechanics, 18, 3-14.

O'Connor, K.M. & Hamill, J. (in review). The role of selected extrinsic foot muscles during running. Clinical Biomechanics.

O'Connor, K.M. & Hamill, J. (in review). Anatomically-based axes at the ankle provide more functionally relevant information. Journal of Applied Biomechanics.

O'Connor, K.M., Price, T., & Hamill, J. (in preparation). Running in shoes with wedged midsoles did not alter muscle activation patterns of the extrinsic foot muscles. Will be submitted to the Journal of Biomechanics.

O'Connor, K.M., Caldwell, G.E., & Hamill, J. (in preparation). Development of a musculoskeletal model to estimate forces in the extrinsic foot muscles. Will be submitted to the Journal of Biomechanics.

Speaker Topics 
Athletic Injuries and Rehabilitation
Exercise Science

Education
Ph.D., University of Massachusetts, Exercise Science, 2002
M.S., Arizona State University, Exercise Science, 1998
B.A., Colorado College, Physics, 1994