Supplementary Studies
In addition to the core ADVANCE investigations, we currently have two supplementary studies ongoing. These are described below.
Inured Veterans' Experiences of Transition (ADVANCE-INVEST)
The ADVANCE-INVEST study is a subsidiary of the core ADVANCE Study. It is a long-term project which investigates the transitional experiences and outcomes of battlefield casualties who have transitioned military to civilian life, comparing them with other transitioning personnel.
The ADVANCE-INVEST team are working to identify factors that facilitate good transition outcomes (in terms of health, well-being, and economic stability) as well as identifying factors associated with poor outcomes.
ADVANCE-INVEST is funded by the Forces in Mind Trust (FiMT).
Find out more about ADVANCE-INVEST here.
ADVANCE-social
The ADVANCE-SOCIAL study is a subsidiary of the core ADVANCE study. The purpose of the project is to better understand the relationships of ex-serving military personnel following deployment to Afghanistan, and how these relationships support the individual and fulfil their needs. This includes relationships with friends, family members, colleagues, or other members of the community. The project also aims to understand how these relationships may be affected by having a physical combat injury or mental health problem. From these findings, recommendations can be made for the Ministry of Defence (MoD), National Health Service (NHS) and other charities on how best to support military personnel before, during and after service to ensure optimal health and well-being.
The ADVANCE-SOCIAL study is a PhD project led by Laura Grover and supervised by Professor Nicola Fear, Dr Laura Palmer and Dr Howard Burdett.
Amputee biomechanics
The amputee biomechanics study uses state-of-the-art facilities at DMRC Stanford Hall to look at the relationship between muscle function and performance, and ultimately the impact of sustaining a lower limb amputation on future health. The results will be used to help improve the rehabilitation process and therefore improve quality of life.
The study participants undergo different tests, including 3D motion capture to assess movement, MRI and ultrasound scans of lower limbs, and strength assessments of hip, knee and ankle muscles.
The project is a collaboration between Loughborough University, Imperial College London and the Ministry of Defence.