David Kingston

David Kingston, Ph.D., serves as Assistant Professor at the University of Nebraska at Omaha's College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences and directs the Movement Analysis Core Facility (MOVAN). MOVAN manages seven laboratory spaces in the Biomechanics Research Building, supporting UNO researchers and external partners including Children's Nebraska – Orthopedics and Fortune 500 robotic surgery company Intuitive Surgical Inc.

His research centers on biomechanics with specialized focus on gait rehabilitation, pediatric mobility, and improving orthopedic surgical outcomes for lower limbs. Kingston employs advanced methodologies including 3D movement analysis, electromyography of muscle activation, and foot pressure distribution to address mobility challenges in children with neuromuscular disorders (particularly cerebral palsy) and persons with diabetes. His NIH-supported work pioneers data-driven rehabilitation protocols using both aquatic and conventional therapeutic environments to optimize clinical decision-making.

Analysis of Kingston's recent publications reveals a dominant research trajectory in comparative gait mechanics across diverse populations. His work consistently examines environmental interactions (aquatic vs. land-based), device efficacy (knee walkers, biofeedback systems), and pathological conditions (cerebral palsy, stroke, diabetes). Key trends include the quantification of pelvic motion irregularities, plantar pressure adaptations during assistive device use, and validation of markerless motion capture systems for clinical applications - demonstrating clear translational impact for surgical planning and rehabilitation protocols.

As Director of MOVAN, Kingston oversees a critical research infrastructure serving as Nebraska's biomechanics hub. The facility enables collaborative projects spanning pediatric orthopedics, diabetic mobility interventions, and robotic surgical development through partnerships with major healthcare providers and technology firms. His NIH-funded research program directly leverages this infrastructure to advance evidence-based rehabilitation practices.