Quality Data Ensures Quality Results 

November 20, 2025  

The Osteoarthritis Prevention Study (TOPS), supported by Arthritis Foundation. The TOPS study is investigating lifestyle measures that may help prevent the development of osteoarthritis (OA). Other studies have shown that weight loss and exercise are some of the most effective treatments for OA in weight-bearing joints, like knees. TOPS is examining whether weight loss and exercise can help prevent OA from developing in the first place. in weight-bearing joints, like knees. TOPS is examining whether weight loss and exercise can help prevent OA from developing in the first place.  

Tell us about your background. 

I completed my master’s degree in biomechanics at East Carolina University, where I focused on how movement influences joint health and musculoskeletal function. Before that, I studied at Hope College in Michigan, where I was involved in research as an undergraduate. Much of that work took place in the biomechanics lab, where I used mechanomyography (MMG) to monitor muscle strength and fatigue. That early experience showed me how closely movement and muscle performance are tied to overall health, and it sparked my interest in pursuing biomechanics more deeply. Those experiences ultimately led me to my current role working on clinical trials aimed at osteoarthritis. 

What drew you to the field of science and research, and arthritis research in particular? What do you hope to accomplish professionally? 

I’ve always been curious about how the body works and how research can help improve people’s lives. Early on, I became especially interested in osteoarthritis because it is one of the most common and disabling conditions worldwide, yet it has no cure. Professionally, I want to help build evidence that gives people better options for maintaining their mobility and independence as they age. 

Could you describe what you do with TOPS? 

In the TOPS trial, I’m responsible for collecting, managing and overseeing the integrity of the study data. That includes supervising biomechanical assessments, coordinating with multiple clinical sites, and ensuring that data are collected consistently and according to protocol. I also monitor quality control, troubleshoot technical issues and prepare datasets for analysis. 

Do you expect TOPS to affect patients either directly or indirectly? 

Absolutely. For participants, the lifestyle programs in TOPS provide direct support for weight loss, physical activity and mental health. Each of these areas can make a meaningful difference in overall well-being. Indirectly, the trial is designed to give us solid evidence about how these types of programs might prevent or slow the development of osteoarthritis. The hope is that what we learn will go on to help many more people outside of the TOPS trial. 

What are you excited about in OA? What should patients be excited about? 

I am most excited about the focus on prevention. For a long time, osteoarthritis has been something people dealt with after it developed, but now we are seeing more work on ways to reduce risk before it starts. Patients should feel encouraged by that shift because it means there are real, practical steps people can take to protect their joint health earlier in life. 

What else would you like to share about your involvement with arthritis research? 

One thing I’ve learned from being part of this research is how much of a team effort it is. From the people collecting data to the participants who volunteer their time, everyone plays a role in moving the science forward. It’s rewarding to know that the work we’re doing today could help improve the lives of people living with arthritis in the future.