Laboratory Imaging Muscle and Bone Structure (LIMBS)

The overall aim of the research conducted in the Laboratory for Imaging Muscle and Bone Structure (LIMBS) is to better understand how bone strength develops and adapts to modifiable lifestyle factors such as physical activity and nutrition. LIMBS offers cutting-edge clinical research tools to characterize and monitor bone structure and microarchitecture beyond bone mass across the human lifespan.

LIMBS has three scanners: peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), XCT2000 (Stratec), high-resolution HR-pQCT (XtremeCT II, Scanco), and DXA (Hologic, Discovery-W). Evidence from our investigations has improved understanding of the determinants of bone strength and fragility, as well as the site-specific role of muscle forces and physical activity on bone strength in the lower limb and fracture-prone forearm. These findings guide the development of tailored therapies for pediatric and osteoporotic fracture prevention.

LIMBS has been directed by Dr. Kontulainen since 2009. LIMBS supports her patient-oriented research program, which aims to optimize musculoskeletal health and fracture prevention, particularly in individuals at risk of fracture. Current pediatric studies focus on children with type 1 diabetes or autism spectrum disorder and include the co-development of tailored exercise interventions with patient partners and care providers.

LIMBS supports transdisciplinary clinical collaborations, including the validation of advanced imaging measures of bone strength (funded by NSERC). It provides access to advanced imaging scanners at USask, trains musculoskeletal researchers, and fosters collaborations locally, nationally, and internationally.

Ongoing studies:

Canadian Bone Strength Development Study

Bone health and physical activity in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder 

Nordic and Pole Walking Studies