Matt Harkey

Matt Harkey is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Michigan State University (MSU), College of Education. His research focuses on identifying individuals at increased risk for knee osteoarthritis (OA) to prevent disability progression. Using interdisciplinary methods from biomechanics, biochemistry, imaging, and epidemiology, he examines early OA symptoms and structural changes post-injuries like ACL reconstruction.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Research Interests:

Harkey investigates early OA biomarkers (e.g., infrapatellar fat pad stiffness, meniscal extrusion) and risk factors (e.g., exercise habits, joint loading patterns). He emphasizes translational research linking clinical outcomes (pain, function) to imaging and biochemical data. Key areas include:

• Bilateral OA severity correlations
• Post-ACL reconstruction symptom trajectories
• Ultrasound innovation for non-invasive diagnostics
• Psychosocial factors influencing recovery

Key Findings: Recent work highlights walking exercise’s protective role against OA progression, persistent early OA symptoms post-ACL surgery, and the validity of ultrasound for cartilage and fat assessments.

Grants & Advising: No specific grants or advisee names mentioned. Focus remains on collaborative clinical and basic science projects.

Labs/Teams: Engaged in MSU’s Kinesiology research programs, likely contributing to interdisciplinary OA prevention initiatives.