Matthew Harkey

Michigan State University

Matt Harkey is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Michigan State University who specializes in identifying individuals at increased risk for knee osteoarthritis (OA) following anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction (ACLR). His interdisciplinary research integrates movement biomechanics, structural pathology, and patient-reported outcomes to proactively address the early stages of OA. Dr. Harkey has been instrumental in enhancing ultrasound technology for monitoring structural changes in patients after ACLR, particularly in identifying early cartilage alterations. His recent work has broadened the application of ultrasound to assess inflammation and other structural issues, providing a comprehensive overview of joint health and the progression of OA. Moreover, Dr. Harkey is pioneering methods to define and monitor early OA symptoms following ACLR, with the goal of implementing interventions at the initial stages of OA development. This approach, centered on the early detection of symptoms, aims to alter the disease's trajectory. Another significant aspect of his work involves the assessment of movement biomechanics to examine how specific movement patterns and forces contribute to the onset of OA. Through an in-depth analysis of gait and landing, Dr. Harkey seeks to identify and modify risk factors, potentially reducing the likelihood of OA development.