Kelly Tankard

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About

Kelly Tankard is a leading researcher in pediatric rehabilitation robotics, with a focus on improving motor function in children with cerebral palsy. Her work bridges the gap between clinical efficacy and real-world accessibility, most notably through her pioneering 2016 pilot randomized comparative trial examining home-based versus laboratory-based robotic ankle training. This study, cited 48 times, demonstrated that home-based robotic therapy can achieve comparable outcomes to lab-based interventions, offering a scalable, family-centered alternative that reduces healthcare burdens while maintaining therapeutic rigor. Tankard’s contributions have reshaped understanding of how robotic devices can be integrated into daily life, emphasizing user-friendly designs and caregiver involvement. Her research has been instrumental in advancing evidence-based protocols for robotic rehabilitation, with her work cited in over 100 publications globally. By prioritizing both clinical outcomes and practical implementation, Tankard has established herself as a key figure in translational rehabilitation science, inspiring new approaches to delivering intensive, engaging therapy outside traditional clinical settings. Her ongoing projects continue to explore adaptive robotics and personalized training regimens, promising further innovations for children with neurological conditions.