About Us

Background

I am a research academic with an interest in understanding the mechanisms of injury and optimising recovery outcomes. I undertook a PhD as part of the Queensland Academy of Sport Centre of Excellence Scholar program. Following this I have worked in a number of contract research roles with Swimming Australia and numerous AFL clubs, and continue to work as an academic lecturing in Anatomy and Physiology.

Research Focus

My current research focus has been on musculoskeletal injuries such as tendinopathy, rotator cuff and hamstring strain and osteoporosis. I have used musculoskeletal ultrasound to assess changes in tendon and muscle architecture pre and post injury to better understand mechanisms of injury and outcomes. I have a strong interest in how musculoskeletal changes post-surgery can impact long-term outcomes and inform rehabilitation practices.

Awards & Achievements

• Swimming Australia Research Grant - 2021
• APR Research Internship Life Saving Victoria - 2020
• Queensland Academy of Sport – Centre of Excellence Award – 2015
• ACU Academic Honours Award – 2011
• Commonwealth Undergraduate Scholarship- 2007

Feature Publications

• Porter, K., Shield, A., Walker, H., Talpey, S. (2023) Does an increase in supraspinatus tendon thickness increase the likelihood of shoulder pain? Sports Health. 2023 Nov. doi: 10.1177/19417381231208715. 

• Porter, K. N., Talpey, S., Pascoe, D., Blanch, P. D., Walker, H. M., & Shield, A. J. (2021). The effect of swimming volume and intensity on changes in supraspinatus tendon thickness. Physical Therapy in Sport, 47, 173-177.

• Porter KN, Blanch PD, Walker HM, Shield AJ. The effect of previous shoulder pain on supraspinatus tendon thickness changes following swimming practice. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2020;00:1–7. https://doi.org/10.1111/ sms.13678

• Timmins, R., Porter, K., Williams, M., Shield, A., Opar, D. (2014), Biceps femoris muscle architecture – the influence of previous injury. British Journal of Sports Medicine; 48(7), 665-6.

How you can help

Participate in a Clinical Trial

To find out about Clinical Trials currently underway at Barwon Health, click here.

 

Donate

Research requires ongoing investment and there are several ways to support our work. You can make a donation today and contribute to an item on our research group’s wish list, consider a bequest in your will, or establish a lasting legacy fund in your name. No matter what size, your philanthropic support will deliver an immediate impact to this important work. To donate now or for more information, please contact the Barwon Health Foundation.