Location
Rochester, Minnesota
Summary
The primary research interests of Ralph E. Gay, M.D., are low back pain and the biomechanics of the lumbar spine. He is particularly interested in the effect of loading and off-loading stress on intervertebral discs, the biomechanical effects of spinal manipulation, and the effects of nonsurgical treatments for low back pain.
Focus areas
- Measurement of vertebral motion with videofluoroscopy
- Effect of flexion-distraction manipulation on intradiscal pressure
- Effect of vertebral bone mineral density distribution on fracture risk
Dr. Gay is part of a multidisciplinary research team in the Orthopedic Biomechanics Laboratory. Other active spine projects in the lab include predictive models of spinal fracture in osteoporosis (validation of finite element analysis) and the imaging of taut bands in painful muscles using magnetic resonance elastography.
Significance to patient care
Although it is well known that back pain is affected by motion, the relationship between spinal motion and pain is poorly understood. Clarification of that relationship will yield new innovative treatments for back pain.
Recent Publications
See my publications
Professional Details
Primary Appointment
- Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Academic Rank
- Assistant Professor of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Education
- AA Mineral Area College
- BS - Human Biology Logan College of Chiropractic
- MD University of Colorado School of Medicine
- Internship - Transitional Gundersen Clinic/Lutheran Hospital
- Residency - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Mayo Clinic in Rochester
- MS - Clinical Research Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic