I visualize biomechanics as a powerful and indispensable ally of the orthopaedic clinician.
Dr. Steindler's quote from his presidential address delivered to the American Orthopaedic Association on May 9, 1933 represents a motivating vision for biomechanics research in the Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation at the University of Iowa
The University of Iowa Orthopedic Biomechanics Laboratory was established in 1969, but related research dates back to pioneering collaborations in the 1930's between Dr. Arthur Steindler and College of Engineering Faculty. Dr. Richard Brand directed the lab from 1969-1984. Dr. Thomas D. Brown directed the lab from 1984-200? Upon the retirement of Dr. Brown, leadership of orthopedic biomechanics research was divided among Dr. Don Anderson and Dr. Jess Goetz, effectively creating two separate laboratories using shared space and resources.
Current Laboratory
In Spring 2025, orthopedic biomechanics investigators had the opportunity to move to the new hospital in North Liberty with the clinical and surgical components of the Orthopedics Department. In this new space, beautiful research facilities were constructed. Thanks to the generosity of Dr. John Callaghan, these facilities are known at the Thomas D. Brown Research Laboratory in honor of the long-time director of the lab. This space is home to projects spanning multiple diseases, deformities, and disorders, that have biomechanical origins, mechanisms, or effects.
