Research Institute
Since 2001, the Research Institute has been dedicated to advancing the science of recovery. We conduct groundbreaking research studies and develop innovative devices, therapies and interventions that facilitate the medical rehabilitation process. Our multidisciplinary team of experts work with Madonna’s clinicians, patients, and industry partners to translate research into practical solutions, ensuring our patients receive the most effective and evidence-based care possible.
Areas of Research
Biomechanics
Our work in biomechanics helps individuals recovering from an injury or serious illness improve their walking ability and cardiorespiratory fitness. Based on these findings, we use advanced technology to study how people move and create new treatments and devices.
Rehabilitation Engineering
Our team designs and develops custom devices to help people living with chronic conditions or disabilities. We create sustainable solutions to meet different patient needs thanks to a collaborative environment and state-of-the-art technology. This work sets us apart from many other health care facilities.
Health Psychology
We turn scientific knowledge about emotional and mental health into patient care. We look at how a person’s environment and experiences affect their recovery from serious injuries or illnesses. Our research helps create methods to improve patient and family well-being. Collaborating with Madonna’s clinical team is crucial to translating these ideas into real-life solutions.
Nutrition Sciences
Nutrition is vital to good health and recovery. We work with patients, clinicians and caregivers to use evidence-based nutrition in our care. Our research helps improve nutrition education, consultations, and support groups, aiming to enhance the quality of life for our patients.
Post-COVID Conditions
Our team has participated in several national research studies focused on post-COVID conditions. We use the latest research findings to inform treatment plans for patients across our model system of post-COVID care.
Success Stories
The Research Institute has helped propel forward scientific research and patient recoveries. Read more about the latest milestones and achievements.
Research Institute
Living with limb differences: Nebraska woman enhances independence via custom device from Madonna’s Institute
Innovations In Action
Our pioneering research results in new technologies and rehabilitation treatments that benefit patients at Madonna and elsewhere. We’re pleased to offer several of our products for purchase through the links below.
Madonna ICARE by SportsArt
Curbell AC20
Developed by the Institute and later renamed the Assistive Control Adapter (AC20) by Madonna partner Curbell Medical, this device hones in on each patient’s abilities to allow them to control their environment with either a sip of air, wiggle of a toe, or muscle twitch.
Complete Adaptive Hydration System
Staying hydrated is important for everyone, but it’s especially vital for patients on the road to recovery. To help solve the hydration needs of patients with limited mobility, the Institute created the Complete Adaptive Hydration System. This device comes with a hydration system mount, a Camelbak water bottle and a hands-free adapter.
Speech Intelligibility Test (SIT)
The Speech Intelligibility Test (SIT) brings both sentence and word features of the Assessment of Intelligibility of Dysarthric Speech (Yorkston & Beukelman, 1981), the Computerized Assessment of Intelligibility of Dysarthric Speech, CAIDS, (Yorkston, Beukelman, and Traynor, 1984), and the Phoneme Intelligibility Test to Windows platforms. All earlier products have been used extensively to measure the speech intelligibility of persons with motor speech disorders, laryngeal cancer, oral cancer, foreign dialect, and cleft palate.
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