Motor function after neuromuscular disorders, such as stroke, relies on lesion-driven deficits in cognitive-motor function and reorganization of the residual brain networks for goal-directed actions. The goal of Dr. Kantak’s research is to determine neurobehavioral mechanisms that underlie the control and learning of goal-directed actions after brain injury with an overarching goal of designing and testing novel, evidence-informed rehabilitation strategies. The guiding principle of Dr. Kantak’s research is that theory-driven understanding of motor behavior and underlying neurophysiology will provide insights crucial for rehabilitation of individuals with neuromuscular disorders. This research encompasses a spectrum from basic science experiments to understand motor behavior in healthy controls and patients at one end, to exploring the effects of innovative treatment strategies to augment motor recovery at the other end. Dr. Kantak uses detailed kinematic and kinetic analyses of goal-directed actions, neuroimaging using transcranial magnetic stimulation and magnetic resonance imaging, and standardized measures of motor and cognitive function to delineate the brain-behavior relationship for motor control and learning. Dr. Kantak’s work is funded by the National Institutes of Health, Albert Einstein Society, Chernowitz Medical Research Foundation, and Peer Review Committee of Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute.

Dr. Kantak’s clinical interests are to develop evidence-informed frameworks to help translate basic science findings and principles into tangible physical rehabilitation interventions to optimize functional outcomes for those with impaired movement following neuromuscular injury. 

PhD, Biokinesiology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA - 2010

MSc Physical Therapy- Neurologic Physical Therapy, Seth G.S. Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Maharashtra - 2000

BSc, Physical Therapy, Seth G. S. Medical College, Mumbai University, Mumbai, Maharashtra - 1998

Fellowship

UMANRRT Postdoctoral Fellowship, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD - 2013

Postdoctoral Fellowship, Neuroplasticity Laboratory, Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL - 2011