Bonita J. Sawatzky
#A204 - 4480 Oak Street
Vancouver, BC V6H 3V4
Tel: 875-2345 local 7274
Fax: 875-2275
Email: sawatzky.icord.org
http://icord.org/researchers/dr-bonnie-sawatzky/

Dr. Sawatzky has been an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedics since 1998 after completion of her PhD in biomechanics from Simon Fraser University. Her primary research interests include studying the biomechanics and morphology of spinal deformities as well as functional outcomes of treatment for children with gait and mobility disabilities. More recently she has directed her interests in studying the physiological and biomechanical effects during wheelchair propulsion.

The prevalence of upper extremity pain in wheelchair users is reported as high as 90% due to the repetitive strain type of exercise of wheelchair propulsion. Dr. Sawatzky’s research is focusing on how to reduce these overuse injuries by specifically looking at which wheelchair type and set-up is most efficient for the user. This kind of research will greatly improve the quality of life for both adults and children with spinal cord injury or spina bifida, as well as for individuals with other mobility-impacting disabilities.

Phoenix, Dr. Sawatzky's assistant, is the newest member of the staff in the Orthopaedic Research Lab. He comes to us following extensive training from the Pacific Assistance Dog Society, where he excelled in his service studies. Phoenix's role in the lab is as a support to the staff and he has already proven himself to be an excellent assistant. His areas of interest include picking up objects from the floor, eating, sleeping and belly rubs.