Researchers Explore Muscle Recovery After Periods of Rest

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Next Steps

  1. Complete the study questionnaire
  2. Understand if you’re eligible to participate
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Research Center: The University of Utah
Location: 421 Wakara Way Salt Lake City, UT 84112
Lead Researcher: Micah Drummond, Ph.D.
IRB: This study has been reviewed and approved by the University of Utah Institutional Review Board (IRB # 130232)


About the Study


If we know better, we can heal better. That is why researchers at the University of Utah aim to better understand. The recovery of muscle health after a period of physical inactivity. 

In this study, researchers want to see how different markers (such as hormones and proteins) in your blood and muscle respond to physical inactivity and recovery. A leg immobilizer must be worn on the left leg for two weeks. No exercise is allowed on this leg for 3 weeks. During the third week NO immobilizer is worn, and you may resume light, daily activities. It is hoped that once the nature of this relationship has been explored, more effective therapies can be made to help those who may become physically inactive and undergo rehabilitation due to injury, illness, or pain. So consider signing up for this study, and help people bounce back better in the future.


Why Participate?


  • Participants will be compensated $1000 for participating in this study. 
  • Participants will be contributing valuable information that may benefit those recovering from periods of inactivity due to surgery, illness, rehab, or injury in the future.
  • Participants will be helping to advance medical research.

Your Rights


  • If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time.
  • Any information that you provide will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
  • Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?


  • Men and women aged from 18-35 
  • Must be in good general medical health, able to walk, and can live independently 
  • Must not have any implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemakers, electronic infusion pumps, stimulators)
  • Must not be on a weight loss diet
  • Must be able to physically attend the research center for 5 study visits for over 1 month.

More Study Details


The study team will explain the research in its entirety but some details are:

  • A leg immobilizer must be worn on the left leg for two weeks.
  • No exercise is allowed for 3 weeks. NO immobilizer is worn during the third week. Participants may still drive and continue with light daily activities such as work or school.
  • Being given a step activity monitor which you can carry in your pocket in order to determine your normal level of physical activity. Additionally, a 3-day daily dietary record will be self-reported prior to enrolling in the experiment
  • 5 total blood draws from the arm  and 4 total muscle biopsies done on the left leg. The biopsy and blood draw segment will be conducted at different times throughout the course of your study.
  • Body Composition Assessment- You will be asked to have your whole body scanned by dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and the MRI. Each scan will be conducted 3 different times over the course of your study   
  • Strength Tests (SMERF)- You will have your leg strength tested on a special machine where you will be seated and stabilized in a device, which will measure the amount of force you are able to produce.  

About the Research Center:


The University of Utah
The University of Utah is a public, coeducational institution of higher education in Salt Lake City, Utah, in the United States. It is a comprehensive university with many research opportunities and academic programs. Through 16 colleges and schools, it offers some 75 undergraduate degree programs and more than 90 graduate degree programs, as well as more than 50 teaching majors and minors.

Please note:
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the researchers would like to assure the participants that ensuring their and the study staff’s safety is of utmost importance.


Study Location


What’s Next?

  1. Click the link to enter your contact details and take the study questionnaire.
  2. If eligible, a member of the research team will contact you to discuss the study and answer any questions you may have.
Click Here to Check Your Eligibility for This Study

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