Martha Funabashi
University of Alberta, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College
Papers
7
Total Citations
141
H-Index
7
About
Martha Funabashi is a biomedical researcher whose work spans spinal biomechanics, spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), and intervertebral disc biology. With over 140 citations across her published work, she has made significant contributions to our understanding of how mechanical forces interact with spinal tissues during clinical interventions and degenerative processes. Her most influential study (49 citations) examined the biological underpinnings of degenerative disc disease using proteomic and biomechanical analyses of canine intervertebral discs, providing foundational insights into differences between chondrodystrophic and non-chondrodystrophic disc pathology. This work exemplifies her ability to bridge molecular biology and mechanical science. A substantial body of Funabashi's research focuses on characterizing the tissue-level forces generated during spinal manipulative therapy. Using innovative robotic replication techniques and cadaveric serial dissection models, she has systematically investigated how variables such as force magnitude, application site, and SMT method influence loading across specific spinal structures—including the intervertebral disc, facet joints, and surrounding soft tissues. These studies are particularly valuable for clinicians seeking to optimize SMT safety and effectiveness. Her research addresses a critical gap in manual therapy science: understanding why patient responses to SMT vary so widely, with implications for improving personalized, evidence-based care.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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