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Research from Dr. Wright, Orthopedic Surgeon

Researcher

Dr. Vonda Wright is also a researcher whose work synthesizes the fields of sports medicine, the science of aging, and the nuances of women’s health. Her innovative approaches and history of groundbreaking research continue to redefine how we view human performance, healing, and longevity. With a steadfast commitment to both clinical outcomes and practical applications, Dr. Wright is shaping the future of sports medicine, women’s health, and active aging.

Vonda Wright leaning against a wall in a hospital

Research in Sports Medicine, Aging, Longevity and More

Evidence-Based Learning from a Real Expert in Orthopedics

Dr. Vonda Wright’s research isn’t just revolutionary: it’s transformative. From advancing hip preservation to pioneering biologics, her impact resonates across multiple landscapes, from lifelong athletes to everyday women. Her work inspires individuals to rethink what's possible at every stage of life, proving that aging doesn’t mean slowing down – it means living smarter.

Driving Innovation at the InSPIRe Institute for Sports Performance and Innovative Research

Founding the Institute for Sports Performance and Innovative Research (InSPIRe) is one of Dr. Wright’s hallmark achievements. This cutting-edge research and clinical collaboration brings together four core labs and strategic partners to address key challenges in sports medicine. The institute focuses on solving innovative clinical questions and advancing the science of performance and recovery, enabling breakthroughs in athlete care and aging resilience.

Advancing Hip Preservation Science

Through her Hip Preservation Program, Dr. Wright has expanded the scope of research in this critical area with a strong focus on:

Basic Science: Analyzing hip tissue pathologies and unlocking the body’s natural capacity for healing.
Biodynamics of the Hip: Studying how movement and mechanics contribute to hip health and function.
Clinical Outcomes: Maintaining a research registry of all hip arthroscopy procedures to ensure data-driven care advancements.
Biologics and Stem Cell Applications: Harnessing ultrasound-guided technologies to explore regenerative solutions for preserving hip function.

By combining novel procedures and precise diagnostics, Dr. Wright’s musculoskeletal aging research is changing the outlook for patients with hip-related conditions.

Exploring Human Biologics and Optimization

Dr. Wright leads a Sports Biologics and Human Optimization Research Program, which is a collaboration between clinicians and basic scientists. This program innovatively applies human hormones, PRP (platelet-rich plasma), stem cells, and biologic scaffolds to enhance healing and optimize athletic performance. With a focus on clinical and scientific responsibility, the program pushes the boundaries of regenerative medicine while ensuring ethical practices.

Excelling with the Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes (PRIMA)

Dr. Wright’s Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes (PRIMA) was the first of its kind. Designed specifically for aging athletes, the PRIMA program focuses on maximizing performance and minimizing injury. The program involves:

  • Laboratory and clinical studies on musculoskeletal aging.
  • Customized strategies to enhance strength, endurance, and flexibility for older athletes.
  • Solutions based on deep medical and scientific insights into aging athleticism.

This initiative has garnered prestigious grants, resulted in numerous research publications, and earned international recognition, marking Dr. Wright as a global thought leader in this space.

Ongoing Research and Impactful Publications

Dr. Wright’s contributions extend far beyond the lab, as her ongoing studies enable key insights into healthy aging and advanced performance. Some of her published works include:

These research efforts not only provide actionable findings for clinicians and athletes but also influence the broader understanding of aging and physical optimization.

Founding this sports research institute will include endowing the collaboration of 4 core labs and strategic partners to solve innovative clinical and research questions in sports medicine.

The hip preservation program includes expanding the science behind various arthroscopic surgical procedures through research in three areas:

  • Basic Science, including analysis of various hip tissue pathologies and harnessing the body's innate capacity to heal
  • Biodynamics of the hip
  • Clinical outcomes, through maintaining a research registry of all hip arthroscopy procedures
  • The use of clinical biologics and stem cells via ultrasound guidance in hip preservation

The Human biologics and optimization research program is a collaborative program of clinicians and basic scientists focusing on harnessing the potential of human hormones, PRP, stem cells, and biologic scaffolds in a clinically and scientifically responsible manner to optimize healing and performance.

PRIMA is the first medical program of its kind specifically designed to maximize performance and minimize injury in masters athletes. The program includes studies of musculoskeletal aging in the laboratory and clinical setting.

Optimize Aging with Dr. Vonda Wright

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