Pediatric FUNctional Mobility (FUN) Lab

The Pediatric FUNctional Mobility (FUN) Lab is located within the Department of Physical Therapy in Grover Center at Ohio University. The mission of our lab is to improve motor outcomes for all children. To do this, Dr. Bican’s work focuses on optimizing current clinical practices and developing novel rehabilitation delivery models to improve access to care for children living in medically underserved communities.

Using a family-and-child-centered approach, the lab strives to meet the needs and goals of the child and family through community-driven research projects. The FUN Lab is also “portable” and can meet the child and family in their home, or other community setting to conduct research. We look forward to growing together with you and your child!

Lead Investigator

Dr. Rachel Bican, PT, DPT, Ph.D. is the Principal Investigator of the Pediatric FUNctional Mobility (FUN) Lab at Ohio University. She completed her DPT and PhD at Ohio State University and was hired as an Assistant Professor at Ohio University in 2021. Her research focuses on improving motor outcomes for children with disabilities and their families. To do this, her work focuses on optimizing current clinical practices and developing novel rehabilitation delivery models to improve access to care for underserved communities.

Current Research Projects

Feasibility of clinical recommendations for post-operative physical therapy and functional outcomes after selective dorsal rhizotomy

• Funding source: AACPDM Research Grant, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) through the National Pediatric Rehabilitation Resource Center
• Dr. Bican's Role: Lead Investigator
• Location(s): Ohio University, Ohio State University, Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Barriers and facilitators to accessing rehabilitation for children with developmental disabilities currently residing in Appalachia

• Funding: N/A
• Dr. Bican's Role: Lead Investigator
• Location(s): Ohio University, Ohio State University

Rehabilitation Opportunities for Children with Cerebral Palsy in Appalachian and Rural Communities (ROAR)

• Funding Source: NIH Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences
• Dr. Bican's Role: Scientific Director for Stakeholder Panel
• Location(s): Ohio University, Ohio State University