Functions and illnesses of the locomotor system

The locomotor system can be divided up into three main components: the body’s framework, which consists of the bones, connective tissues and ligaments, and joints that make movement possible and muscles that perform them. The circulation of the blood and the nervous system are also usually counted as part of the locomotor system.

Orthopedics is the surgical specialization aimed at treating fractures and other injuries, diseases or deformities in the locomotor system. The goal of orthopedics research at LiU is to promote methods which in the long run can be used clinically to expedite the healing process, relieve degenerative illnesses in tendons and ligaments, and improve the fixation of orthopedic implants.

In the field of sports medicine, people study how the risks and consequences of injuries connected with sports and exercise can be reduced.

Physiotherapy aims at preventing, relieving, or curing illnesses that affect the locomotor system through noninvasive rehabilitation methods.

Areas of Research

• Sports medicine (Link to the sports medicine project at the Community Medicine Department in IMH)
• Orthopedics
• Physiotherapy