Javier Rey-Rosa
Research Reflection
Hi! My name is Javi, and I am a second-year Honors College student majoring in kinesiology with a pre-med option. This year, I participated in the URSA Engage program studying the biomechanics of chronic ankle instability under the mentorship of Dr. Cathleen Crowell.
I have always been extremely passionate about health, well-being and physical activity. My background in sports such as soccer and wrestling sparked my interest in the mechanisms of injuries as well as the recovery process. Research stood out to me as a way to pursue my interests while developing my professional skills and career.
URSA Engage was the perfect opportunity for me to explore the research process while investigating something that I was passionate about. I was surprised by the relaxed and easy-going environment that allowed me to make mistakes and slowly learn how the scientific method works. I found a lot of support within my lab group, and I felt comfortable asking questions, which made the entire process less stressful and more enjoyable.
My research focused on the biomechanics of jump landing in people with chronic ankle instability (CAI). The study consisted of participants doing a series of jumps onto a force plate while equipped with retroreflective markers. These markers were tracked by infrared cameras to generate a skeleton moving in live time that could be analyzed for data. Two variables that I focused on were time to peak vertical ground reaction force and loading rate. Those with CAI were compared to a group of healthy controls to determine if they displayed different movement patterns during the jumping and landing tasks. Data from this study could be used by athletic trainers and other medical professionals to help further their understanding of CAI and the risk of re-injury.
In the future, I see myself continuing to do research while working toward my goal of becoming a physician. I want to use research as a tool to investigate and address many of the health disparities that exist in today’s world and make a meaningful impact on as many people’s lives as possible. Combining my strong sense of empathy with my drive to make a difference will propel me into the medical field as I strive to become the best doctor I can be.
Why did you choose the College of Health at OSU to pursue your studies?
The College of Health at OSU stood out to me because of the variety of opportunities it provides, including research, experiential learning and volunteering. I also liked the pre-therapy and allied health option because it provides hands-on experience in multiple health care professions and prepares you for graduate school.
What sparked your interest in health?
I’ve always believed that living a healthy lifestyle is paramount to all other areas of life, such as mental health and one’s ability to work. Specifically, I grew up playing soccer and a variety of other sports and I always remember being drawn to how injuries occur and how they could be prevented.
Why are you interested in research?
Research provides a unique opportunity for me to explore my interests while contributing to scientific development that can positively impact entire communities. Researching in the field of health can provide solutions and create awareness for different health problems and disparities.
What research will you be working on and with whom?
My research will focus on the biomechanics of landing and movement in recreationally active individuals with and without chronic ankle instability under the mentorship of Dr. Cathleen Crowell.
What are your future career and/or academic plans?
My future career plans are to attend medical school to become an orthopedic surgeon or doctor of sports medicine. In my eyes, restoring movement and reducing pain in someone in such a short amount of time makes orthopedic surgery uniquely impactful.