Research Areas

Translational Research in Primary Healthcare is dedicated to bridging the gap between scientific research and practical application in primary care settings. We aim to conduct innovative and interdisciplinary research that directly improves patient outcomes and the delivery of healthcare service at the community level.

The key focus area include:

1. Evidence-based interventions: Developing and implementing clinical interventions and care models to enhance early detection, prevention, and management of chronic conditions in primary healthcare.
2. Community-engaged/health services research: Partnering with non-government organizations and community partners to identify healthcare needs and co-create tailored solutions/ programs.
3. Dissemination: Translating research findings into practical and scalable programs that can be adopted by primary care providers.
   
   

Our researchers are experts with diverse backgrounds, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and basic scientists. By fostering collaboration across disciplines, we aim to generate high-impact, practice-changing knowledge that transforms the delivery of primary care.

The research group bridges the gap between basic neuroscience discoveries and clinical application for treating disorders related to the nervous system. Applying insights gained from both fundamental and clinical studies, the aim of the research group is to invent impactful rehabilitation interventions to enhance the functions and health of individuals suffered from the disorders, ultimately helping them to regain a meaningful life.

With the recent advance in digital technology, ‘intelligent rehabilitation’ is becoming a sustainable and promising area for rehabilitation research and its future development. Examples of intelligent rehabilitation  may include, among others, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in systematic identification, validation, and integration of digital biomarkers and digital phenotypes into rehabilitation practice; analysis and digitalized solutions for big data in rehabilitation longitudinal studies; e-health or telehealth platforms for rehabilitation practice; mobile technology including use of Apps, smart devices and wearables; integration of ‘internet of things’ (IoT) and electronic engineering in rehabilitation interventions; and the application of virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (VAMR) in rehabilitation.

Translational research in musculoskeletal and sports science bridges the gap between basic scientific discoveries and their practical applications. It focuses on transforming insights from fundamental studies into effective treatments, preventive measures, and performance-enhancing strategies. This type of research is crucial for improving patient outcomes by developing new therapies and rehabilitation methods, enhancing athletic performance through better training and injury prevention, and informing clinical practices with the latest evidence. By translating scientific findings into real-world interventions, this field supports evidence-based decision-making and promotes healthier, more active populations. It ensures that both clinical and sports practices benefit from cutting-edge research.

Hong Kong and worldwide are facing an ageing population. Advancing age is associated with an increased risk of developing debilitating health conditions such as stroke, dementia, arthritis, sarcopenia and osteoporosis. These health conditions significantly reduce the quality of life in older people and their caregivers while also posing an increasing healthcare burden. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists play prominent roles in health promotion, disease prevention and rehabilitation of the older population. This research theme encompasses basic science and applied research to study the age-related changes in physical, cognitive and psychosocial functions and aim to develop evidence-based rehabilitative strategies and services for promoting health and quality of life in older adults.