Ultrasound assessment of joint health after spaceflight

The changes to joint loading that occurs when humans enter microgravity can cause damage to their structure and function. This project will investigate the effects of short duration spaceflight on cartilage/tendon/ligament thickness, joint fluids, and blood flow via ultrasound evaluation of lower extremity joints before and after flight. The project aims to develop this method as a non-invasive assessment of cartilage and joint health that could optimize exercise protocols for future spaceflight crew and reduce injury upon returning to Earth."