Research
The UNC Sports Medicine Institute’s clinical scientists are pioneering new treatments using our state-of-the-art research facilities. Our researchers collaborate from across many departments and centers at UNC, including Exercise and Sport Science (Motion Science Institute, Applied Physiology Lab, Psychology of Sports Injury Lab), Orthopaedics, the Injury Prevention Research Center, the Thurston Arthritis Research Center, and the UNC/NCSU Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering.
Patients Can Participate in Research
The best way to improve future care is through clinical research that provides information about which treatments will work for certain patients, and when interventions should be delivered. We have several clinical studies currently recruiting participants and your interest in enrolling may be discussed with you during your clinic visit. The close-knit relationship between our healthcare providers and clinical scientists ensures that we are continually receiving improving our clinical practice and providing the cutting-edge care to our patients at the UNC Sports Medicine Institute.
Are you willing to participate in research?
UNC has a website to help you find trials you may be able to participate in: UNC's Research for Me
On the Research for Me page, click on the magnifying glass at the top right corner of the list of current trials and type in your body area or condition (for example, knee or arthritis). Click on the green ‘open’ or blue ‘referral/invitation’ button to learn more. Use the contact information listed to research the trial coordinator directly. Or, email smiresearch@med.unc.edu with your condition to get directly connected to open trials.
Wonder what it’s like to participate in a research trial?
It’s a fun and educational experience that can help you and future patients! Hear about it from a few of our researchers and past participants: