Dr. Peter Keir is a professor in the Department of Kinesiology at McMaster University. His research aims to determine the mechanisms of work-related musculoskeletal disorders of the upper extremity.
The objectives of his research program are to improve understanding of the mechanics and control of the upper extremity to a point where biomechanical mechanisms of upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders can be defined. By developing a solid link between control and mechanics, disorders can be prevented at a fundamental level.
The disorders include those pertaining to muscle tissue (e.g. myalgia), connective tissue (e.g. tendinitis and epicondylitis), and peripheral nerve (e.g. carpal tunnel syndrome). His research tools include Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), tissue measurement, computer modeling, electromyography (EMG) and motion measurement.