Foot & Ankle Mechanics & Morphology (FAMM) Lab
Who We Are
The Foot & Ankle Mechanics & Morphology (FAMM) Lab is a multidisciplinary research team directed by Dr. Amy Lenz specializing in foot and ankle biomechanics. Our expertise spans engineering, computer science, orthopaedic surgery, and physical therapy, all united by our focus on understanding the complex interplay of active and passive tissue interactions in the foot and ankle. We aim to characterize healthy, diseased, and post-surgical foot and ankle morphology and in-vivo function to improve our clinical and engineering understanding of the foot and ankle. Our team actively collaborates with several campus departments, including Biomedical Engineering, Orthopaedics, Physical Therapy, and the Scientific and Computing Imaging Institute.
What We Do
We apply advanced mechanical engineering principles and cutting-edge technology to study in-vivo kinematics and foot and ankle morphology. Our methods include biplane fluoroscopy for dynamic kinematic analysis; Vicon motion capture for comprehensive multi-segment assessments; and magnetic resonance imaging and weightbearing computed tomography for detailed bone and tissue evaluation. We also utilize tools like 3D reconstruction and statistical shape modeling to computationally assess morphology, alongside cadaver experimental models to pilot new surgical techniques. Some ongoing projects include planovalgus foot reconstruction in adults with cerebral palsy, investigating hindfoot osteoarthritis through weightbearing CT, and standardizing coordinate systems for reporting in-vivo kinematics—all aimed at defining relationships between 3D morphology and function for improved surgical outcomes.