![Peter Theobald BEng(Hons), PGCert, PhD, CEng, MIMechE, SFHEA](https://profiles-cardiff.imgix.net/attachments/9837?w=200&h=200&auto=format&crop=faces&fit=crop&q=90")
Dr Peter Theobald
BEng(Hons), PGCert, PhD, CEng, MIMechE, SFHEA
- Media commentator
- Available for postgraduate supervision
Teams and roles for Peter Theobald
Reader
Overview
My research focusses on healthcare engineering, with a particular interest in sport. I am fortunate to draw on over 20 years experience in sports medicine and biomechanics, and have worked collaboratively to attract more than £4M research funding. I aim for my research to achieve a tangible difference to society, by generating new knowledge and understanding that provides an evidence-base for optimising health and welfare. An example is my current engagement with the Drake-(Steve)Barclay(MP) All Party Parliamentary Group on rugby player safety.
Current work:
My research interests are bias towards females, whom are under-represented in myriad of healthcare engineering sectors. This leads us to deliver female-specific policies and products, investigative programmes and rehabilitation protocols. Our current investigations encompass brain, breast, knee, lower limb, muscle and uterine physiology-biomechanics. An example of our work is nicely summarised in this article and video, and in a recent feature by The Guardian newspaper (Fig 1).
Fig 1. With Ffion James (Cardiff University Womens Rugby Football Club) and Freya Butcher (PhD student, right), ahead of the annual Varsity Clash against Swansea University, which concluded our first season embedded with the team. Image credit: The Guardian newspaper.
I also have a strong interest in orthopaedics and cardiac biomechanics, including a recently finished EPSRC-funded study investigating growth and remodelling, and have recently become involved in enhancing cancer-related diagnostics, by leveraging our recent EPSRC infrastructure investment to start developing new imaging phantoms.
Recent Work:
My research group are particularly focused on brain biomechanics, ranging from understanding tissue behaviour, correlating how brain kinematics influences white matter structure, through to designing novel structures to achieve more effective brain protection (Fig 2):
Fig 2. (a) Age- and region-dependent viscoelastic changes in porcine brain white matter, from Lei et al, 2026. (b) Capturing heading kinematics, from Barnes-Wood et al., 2024 (c) White matter tracts showing significant differences in mean diffusivity, 180 days after male footballers performed 10 headers, from McCloskey et al, 2025. (d) Novel material-structure combination for advanced head/brain protection, from Adams et al., 2023.
Industrial Collaboration:
We are also actively engage with a breadth of industries and Standards committees (in the UK and US), national and international governing bodies. Our efforts focus on researching and developing novel technologies that can be translated into new products. We have worked extensively across the personal protection sector (e.g. Charles Owen, SPORTTAPE), creating many co-supervised, co-funded research roles that have been valuable in generating industry-specific knowledge and understanding. Finlay Taggart has recently completed a 15-month secondment to Sports Labs, developing our fundamental work (MacFarlane et al., 2024) to produce an on-pitch method of assessing skin injury risk (Fig 3). Dr Megan Barnes-Wood is now part-way through her 3-year secondment to Champion Hats funded via the Knowledge Transfer Partnership.
Fig 3. The launch of our new, laboratory-based device to assess skin injury risk, ahead of its adoption in the revised turf regulations. The event was attended by World Rugby (sponsors), FIFA, World Rugby Preferred Turf Producers and Accredited Test Institutes (April 2024).
Working With Us:
We always seeking new industrial and academic partners, investors and policy-makers, to increase the reach and impact of our work. If you are interested, please get in contact using the above details.
Publication
2026
- Zhao, X. et al. 2026. Changes and compensatory gait mechanisms in lower extremity kinematics in patients with ACL rupture: a cross-sectional controlled study. Sports Health (10.1177/19417381261479683)
- Liu, T. et al. 2026. Tissue identity is the dominant determinant of cross-species transferability of a porcine developmental programme. BMC Genomics (10.1186/s12864-026-13103-0)
- Lei, R. et al. 2026. Age and region dependent biomechanical and ultrastructural differences in porcine white matter. Acta Biomaterialia 216 , pp.311-322. (10.1016/j.actbio.2026.04.013)
- Almutairi, A. B. et al., 2026. Knowledge and attitudes toward sport-related concussion among coaches and athletes in Middle East and North Africa region: Preliminary results. International journal of Sports Science and Coaching (10.1177/17479541261462097)
- Ahmad, F. et al., 2026. Quantifying regional and age-dependent microstructural changes in porcine ventricles from neonatal to adulthood using DT-MRI and TPEF-SHG microscopy. Annals of Biomedical Engineering (10.1007/s10439-026-04143-4)
2025
- McCloskey, H. et al. 2025. Quantified head-ball impacts in soccer: a preliminary, prospective study. Neurotrauma Reports 6 (1), pp.928-943. (10.1177/2689288x251380145)
2024
- Zhuan, X. et al., 2024. A mixed trigger volumetric growth law for cylindrical deformation in stressed configurations. Mathematics and Mechanics of Solids 29 (9), pp.1915-1931. (10.1177/10812865241242998)
- MacFarlane, M. et al. 2024. A novel methodology for simulating skin injury risk on synthetic playing surfaces. Lubricants 12 (6) 207. (10.3390/lubricants12060207)
- Barnes-Wood, M. et al. 2024. Investigation of head kinematics and brain strain response during soccer heading using a custom-fit instrumented mouthguard. Annals of Biomedical Engineering 52 , pp.934-945. (10.1007/s10439-023-03430-8)
2023
- Ahmad, F. et al. 2023. Quantifying the microstructural and biomechanical changes in the porcine ventricles during growth and remodelling. Acta Biomaterialia 171 , pp.166-192. (10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.044)
- Adams, R. , Soe, S. and Theobald, P. 2023. Optimisation of an elastomeric pre-buckled honeycomb helmet liner for advanced impact mitigation. Smart Materials and Structures 32 (9) 095012. (10.1088/1361-665x/ace94b)
- Lacan, F. et al. 2023. Towards using a multi-material, pellet-fed additive manufacturing platform to fabricate novel imaging phantoms. Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology 47 , pp.189-196. (10.1080/03091902.2023.2193267)
2022
- Elfekky, M. et al. 2022. Causes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction failure: A meta-analysis. Journal of Musculoskeletal Surgery and Research 6 , pp.193-199. (10.25259/JMSR_72_2022)
- Ramos, H. et al., 2022. Response of gyroid lattice structures to impact loads. International Journal of Impact Engineering 164 104202. (10.1016/j.ijimpeng.2022.104202)
- Adams, R. et al. 2022. Mechanical behaviour of additively manufactured elastomeric pre-buckled honeycombs under quasi-static and impact loading. Materials & Design 213 110368. (10.1016/j.matdes.2021.110368)
- Adams, R. et al. 2022. Finite element-based optimisation of an elastomeric honeycomb for impact mitigation in helmet liners. International Journal of Mechanical Sciences 214 106920. (10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2021.106920)
2021
- Hanna, B. et al. 2021. Auxetic metamaterial optimisation for head impact mitigation in American football. International Journal of Impact Engineering 157 103991. (10.1016/j.ijimpeng.2021.103991)
- ALJawaee, M. A. et al. 2021. Does wobble board training improve balance in older adults? A systematic review. Physical Therapy Reviews 26 (6), pp.447-456. (10.1080/10833196.2021.1987042)
- MacFarlane, M. J. and Theobald, P. 2021. Skin tribology in sport. Biosurface and Biotribology 7 (3), pp.113-118. (10.1049/bsb2.12015)
- Soe, S. et al., 2021. Investigating the dynamic compression response of elastomeric, additively manufactured fluid-filled structures via experimental and finite element analyses. Additive Manufacturing 39 101885. (10.1016/j.addma.2021.101885)
2020
- Townsend, S. et al. 2020. 3D printed origami honeycombs with tailored out-of-plane energy absorption behavior. Materials & Design 195 108930. (10.1016/j.matdes.2020.108930)
- Soe, S. et al. 2020. Using FFF and topology optimisation to increase crushing strength in equestrian helmets. Presented at: 7th International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing KES-SDM 2020 Virtual 9-11 Sept 2020. Published in: Scholz, S. G. , Howlett, R. J. and Setchi, R. eds. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2020. Vol. 200.Springer. , pp.369-377. (10.1007/978-981-15-8131-1_33)
2019
- Adams, R. et al. 2019. A novel pathway for efficient characterisation of additively manufactured thermoplastic elastomers. Materials and Design 180 107917. (10.1016/j.matdes.2019.107917)
- Guan, D. et al., 2019. On the AIC-based model reduction for the general Holzapfel-Ogden myocardial constitutive law. Biomechanics and Modeling in Mechanobiology 18 , pp.1213-1232. (10.1007/s10237-019-01140-6)
- Kandasamy, J. et al. 2019. Can real-time feedback improve the simulated infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance of basic life support and lay rescuers?. Archives of Disease in Childhood 104 (8), pp.493-801. (10.1136/archdischild-2018-316576)
- Malik, S. et al., 2019. An in-vitro animal bone model study to predict spiral fracture strength of long bones in the young infant. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma 10 (4), pp.744-749. (10.1016/j.jcot.2018.10.001)
- Robinson, M. et al. 2019. Mechanical characterisation of additively manufactured elastomeric structures for variable strain rate applications. Additive Manufacturing 27 , pp.-. (10.1016/j.addma.2019.03.022)
2018
- Ahmad, F. et al. 2018. Biomechanical properties and microstructure of neonatal porcine ventricles. Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials 88 , pp.18-28. (10.1016/j.jmbbm.2018.07.038)
- Ahmad, F. et al. 2018. Region-specific microstructure in the neonatal ventricles of a porcine model. Annals of Biomedical Engineering 46 (12), pp.2162-2176. (10.1007/s10439-018-2089-4)
- Thangaraj, R. , Jones, M. D. and Theobald, P. 2018. Changes in frictional coefficient with increased tendon surface tear?An experimental animal model. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma 9 (S1), pp.S19-S25. (10.1016/j.jcot.2017.08.003)
2017
- Jabi, W. et al. 2017. Enhancing parametric design through non-manifold topology. Design Studies 52 , pp.96-114. (10.1016/j.destud.2017.04.003)
- Jones, M. et al. 2017. Development and validation of a physical model to investigate the biomechanics of infant head impact. Forensic Science International 276 , pp.111-119. (10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.03.025)
- Robinson, M. et al., 2017. Developing elastomeric cellular structures for multiple head impacts. Presented at: 2017 IRCOBI Conference Antwerp, Belgium 13–15 September 2017.
2016
- Jones, M. D. , Oates, B. and Theobald, P. 2016. Quantifying the biotribological properties of forehead skin to enhance head impact simulations. Biosurface and Biotribology 2 (2), pp.75-80.
- Swaminathan, R. et al. 2016. The prediction of neck extensor force using surface electromyography. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation 29 (2), pp.279-285. (10.3233/BMR-150626)
- Davies, A. et al. 2016. Achieving sustainability in SME manufacturing operations via the use of flexible integrated technology and product symbiosis. Presented at: SDM 2016 Crete, Greece 4-6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 52.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Cham: Springer. , pp.281-293. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_25)
- Dorrington, P. , Lacan, F. A. and Bigot, S. 2016. How are micro enterprises adopting emergent technologies?. Presented at: 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing (SDM-2016) Chania, Greece 4-6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 52.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies (SIST) Vol. 52. Cham: Springer. , pp.215-226. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_19)
- Marsh, J. and Eyers, D. 2016. Increasing production efficiency through electronic batch record systems: a case study. Presented at: SDM 2016 Chania, Crete Greece 4 - 6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Vol. 52. Cham: , pp.261-269. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_23)
- Morris, A. , Setchi, R. and Prickett, P. W. 2016. Product change management and future information architectures. Presented at: Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016 Chania, Crete, Greece 5 - 8 April 2016.. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 1.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Vol. 52. Switzerland: Springer International Publishing. , pp.241-250. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_21)
- Soe, S. , Jabi, W. and Theobald, P. 2016. Evaluating innovative CAD techniques in the creation of conformal cellular structures. Presented at: 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing (SDM-2016) Heraklion, Greece 4-6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al., Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 52.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Springer International. , pp.387-397. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_33)
- Hughes, J. et al., 2016. Biomechanical characteristics of head injuries from falls in children younger than 48 months. Archives of Disease in Childhood 101 , pp.310-315. (10.1136/archdischild-2014-306803)
- Swaminathan, R. et al. 2016. Does the new rugby union scrum sequence positively influence the hooker's in situ spinal kinematics?. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine 2 (1) e000064. (10.1136/bmjsem-2015-000064)
- Setchi, R. et al. 2016. Sustainable design and manufacturing 2016. Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Springer. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4)
- Alqhtani, R. S. et al., 2016. Investigating the contribution of the upper and lower lumbar spine, relative to hip motion, in everyday tasks. Manual Therapy 21 , pp.268-273. (10.1016/j.math.2015.09.014)
2015
- Singh, R. et al., 2015. Motocross biking for competition and for recreation: a prospective analysis of 423 injured riders. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine 1 (1) e000019. (10.1136/bmjsem-2015-000019)
- Jones, M. D. et al. 2015. Development of a computational biomechanical infant model for the investigation of infant head injury by shaking. Medicine, Science and the Law 55 (4), pp.291-299. (10.1177/0025802414564495)
- Swaminathan, M. et al., 2015. A kinematic analysis of the spine during rugby scrummaging on natural and synthetic turfs. Journal of Sports Sciences 34 (11), pp.1058-1066. (10.1080/02640414.2015.1088165)
- Soe, S. et al. 2015. Feasibility of optimising bicycle helmet design safety through the use of additive manufactured TPE cellular structures. International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology 79 (9), pp.1975-1982. (10.1007/s00170-015-6972-y)
- Alqhtani, R. S. et al., 2015. Correlation of lumbar-hip kinematics between trunk flexion and other functional tasks. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 38 (6), pp.442-447. (10.1016/j.jmpt.2015.05.001)
- Alqhtani, R. S. et al., 2015. Reliability of an accelerometer-based system for quantifying multiregional spinal range of motion. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 38 (4), pp.275-281. (10.1016/j.jmpt.2014.12.007)
- King, P. et al., 2015. Design, calibration and validation of a novel surface imaging tool for medical endoscopic applications. Presented at: 2015 IEEE International Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference (I2MTC) Pisa, Italy 11-14 May 2015. 2015 IEEE International Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference (I2MTC 2015). Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). , pp.1342-1348. (10.1109/I2MTC.2015.7151468)
- Okhiria, D. et al. 2015. In vivo monitoring of orthopaedic implant wear using amorphous ribbons. IEEE Transactions on Magnetics 51 (1) 4002303. (10.1109/TMAG.2014.2356715)
- Soe, S. et al. 2015. Energy absorption characteristics of additively manufactured TPE cellular structures. Presented at: Second International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing Seville, Spain 12-14 April 2015.
2014
- Rodger, M. P. , Theobald, P. and Giddins, G. 2014. Vein grafts to augment flexor tendon repairs: a biomechanical study on strength and gap resistance. Journal of Hand Surgery: European Volume 40 (7), pp.695-699. (10.1177/1753193414564902)
- Howieson, A. J. , Jones, M. D. and Theobald, P. 2014. The change in energy absorbed post removal of metalwork in a simulated paediatric long bone fracture. Journal of Children's Orthopaedics 8 (5), pp.443-447. (10.1007/s11832-014-0606-z)
- Williams, J. , Theobald, P. and Jones, M. D. 2014. Does the presence of a vertical barrier influence sagittal spinal curvature or range of motion in young females?. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation 27 (1), pp.71-75. (10.3233/BMR-130421)
- Soe, S. et al. 2014. Feasibility of using Duraform® flex lattice structures and additive manufacturing for optimising bicycle helmet design safety. Presented at: SDM'14: International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing Cardiff, Wales 28-30 April 2014. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing: SDM-14: Pre-Proceedings. Vol. 1.Vol. 1. England: KES International. , pp.278-290.
- Singh, R. et al., 2014. Ankle fractures: a literature review of current treatment methods. Open Journal of Orthopedics 04 (11), pp.292-303. (10.4236/ojo.2014.411046)
2013
- Biggs, P. et al. 2013. Development of a methodology for the standardisation and improvement of 'Smartphone' photography of patterned bruises and other cutaneous injuries. Science & Justice 53 (3), pp.358-362. (10.1016/j.scijus.2013.05.001)
- Khan, I. M. et al. 2013. In vitro growth factor-induced bio engineering of mature articular cartilage. Biomaterials 34 (5), pp.1478-1487. (10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.09.076)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2013. Do chest compressions during simulated infant CPR comply with international recommendations?. Archives of Disease in Childhood 98 , pp.576-581. (10.1136/archdischild-2012-302583)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2013. Does a more "physiological" infant manikin design effect chest compression quality and create a potential for thoracic over-compression during simulated infant CPR?. Resuscitation 84 (5), pp.666-671. (10.1016/j.resuscitation.2012.10.005)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2013. Real-time feedback can improve infant manikin cardiopulmonary resuscitation by up to 79%- A randomised controlled trial. Resuscitation 84 (8), pp.1125-1130. (10.1016/j.resuscitation.2013.03.029)
- Theobald, P. 2013. Fat pad lubrication properties. In: Wang, Q. J. and Chung, Y. eds. Encyclopedia of Tribology. Springer. , pp.1022-1026. (10.1007/978-0-387-92897-5_1274)
2012
- Theobald, P. et al. 2012. Tribological characteristics of healthy tendon. Journal of Biomechanics. 45 (11), pp.1972-1978. (10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.05.005)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2012. Increased incidence of CPR-related rib fractures in infants - is it related to changes in CPR technique? [Letter]. Resuscitation 83 (4), pp.e109. (10.1016/j.resuscitation.2011.08.034)
- McGonagle, L. et al., 2012. Lubrication properties of commercially available anti-adhesive agents used in tendon repair [Abstract]. Orthopaedic Proceedings: a supplement of Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (British) 94-B (SXVIII), pp.60-60.
- McGonagle, L. J. et al. 2012. The bio-tribological properties of anti-adhesive agents commonly used during tendon repair. Journal of Orthopaedic Research 30 (5), pp.775-780. (10.1002/jor.21569)
- Theobald, P. , Jones, M. D. and Williams, J. M. 2012. Do inertial sensors represent a viable method to reliably measure cervical spine range of motion?. Manual Therapy 17 (1), pp.92-96. (10.1016/j.math.2011.06.007)
- Theobald, P. , Qureshi, A. and Jones, M. D. 2012. Biomechanical investigation into the torsional failure of immature long bone. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma 3 (1), pp.24-27. (10.1016/j.jcot.2012.02.001)
2011
- Thomas, J. M. C. et al., 2011. The bio-tribological characteristics of synthetic tissue grafts. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine 225 (2), pp.141-148. (10.1243/09544119JEIM796)
- Jones, M. , Cory, C. Z. and Theobald, P. 2011. Validation of the MADYMO facet human body model to simulate blunt ballistic impacts to the thorax. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011. Proceedings of the International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII, Brussels, Belgium, 2011. International Society of Biomechanics
- Jones, M. D. , Cory, C. and Theobald, P. 2011. Validation of the MADYMO facet human body model to simulate blunt ballistic impacts to the thorax. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Jones, M. D. , Dickson, J. and Theobald, P. 2011. Does wearing a cycle helmet increase the risk of a child sustaining a rotational head injury?. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Jones, M. D. and Theobald, P. 2011. The potential effects of floor impact surfaces on infant head injury outcome during a short fall. Medicine, Science and the Law 51 (4), pp.203-207. (10.1258/msl.2011.011006)
- Martin, P. et al. 2011. Chest compression quality during infant CPR. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2011. Chest compression performance during infant CPR [Abstract]. Archives of Diseases in Childhood 96 (S1) A86. (10.1136/adc.2011.212563.200)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2011. Computational simulation of head accelerations generated by the 'Shaken Baby Syndrome'. Presented at: ESB2010: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2011. Do chest compressions, during paediatric CPR, cause thoracic trauma?. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2011. The influence of strain rate on the angle of spiral fracture in paediatric long bone. Presented at: 12th European Congress of Trauma and Emergency Surgery Milan, Italy 21-30 April 2011.
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2011. The influence of strain rate on the angle of spiral fracture in paediatric long bone. Presented at: 12th European Congress of Trauma & Emergency Surgery Milan, Italy 27-30 April 2011.
- Theobald, P. and Jones, M. D. 2011. Does the potential adoption of IRB Regulation 22 expose soccer players to an increased risk of head injury?. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Theobald, P. , Jones, M. D. and Williams, J. 2011. The use of attitude sensors to measure cervical spine ROM. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belguim 3-7 July 2011.
- Theobald, P. , Qureshi, A. and Jones, M. D. 2011. Can the rotational speed to cause spiral fracture be estimated from the fracture pattern?. Presented at: Bone Research Society and British Orthopaedic Research Society Meeting Cambridge, UK 27-29 June 2011.
2010
- Landham, P. R. et al., 2010. Friction as a potential cause of paratenonitis [Abstract]. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery 92-B (I 59)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2010. Development of a 9 month old model for the computational simulation of traumatic injuries to infants. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2010. Biomechanical investigation into the torsional failure of paediatric long bone. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2010. The influence of strain rate on the angle of spiral fracture in paediatirc long bone [Abstract]. European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery 36 (S1), pp.141.
- Stokes, O. D. et al., 2010. Panoramic ultrasound to measure in vivo teno Achilles strain. Foot and Ankle International 31 (10), pp.905-909. (10.3113/FAI.2010.0905)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2010. The biomechanical consequence of removing the periosteum from paediatric bone exposed to spiral fracture. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Theobald, P. et al. 2010. The predicted risk of head injury from fall related impacts on to third-generation artificial turf and grass soccer surfaces: A comparative biomechanical analysis. Sports Biomechanics 9 (1), pp.29-37. (10.1080/14763141003690245)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2010. Using head injury criterion (HIC) to assess the risk of concussion following head impact. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Thomas, J. M. et al., 2010. The lubrication of synthetic tissue grafts and healthy tendon. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
2009
- Ghazzawi, A. A. et al. 2009. Quantifying the motion of Kager's fat pad. Journal of Orthopaedic Research 27 (11), pp.1457-1460. (10.1002/jor.20900)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2009. Medical engineering at Cardiff University. Part 1: undergraduate programmes of study. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine 223 (4), pp.425-430. (10.1243/09544119JEIM533)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2009. Medical engineering at Cardiff University. Part 2: postgraduate programmes of study. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine 223 (4), pp.431-435. (10.1243/09544119JEIM534)
2008
- Landham, P. R. et al. 2008. A bio-tribological analysis of paratenonitis. Presented at: STLE/ASME 2008 International Joint Tribology Conference (IJTC2008) Miami, FL, USA 20-22 October 2008. Proceedings of the STLE/ASME 2008 International Joint Tribology Conference (IJTC2008), October 20–22, 2008 , Miami, Florida, USA. ASME Conference Proceedings New York, NY: ASME. , pp.131-133. (10.1115/IJTC2008-71158)
2007
- Theobald, P. et al. 2007. Lubrication regime of the contact between fat and bone in bovine tissue. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of engineering in medicine 221 (4), pp.351-356. (10.1243/09544119JEIM176)
- Pullin, R. et al. 2007. Numerical determination of acoustic emission sensor response in plates using dispersion curves. Presented at: 7th International Conference on Damage Assessment of Structures (DAMAS 2007) Turin, Italy
- Theobald, P. et al. 2007. The Potential Frictional Significance of Kagers Fat Pad. Presented at: 53rd Annual Meeting of the Orthopaedic Research Society San Diego, USA
2006
- Theobald, P. 2006. Biomechanical analysis of the Achilles tendon enthesis organ. PhD Thesis , Cardiff University.
- Theobald, P. et al. 2006. The functional anatomy of Kager's fat pad in relation to retrocalcaneal problems and other hindfoot disorders. Journal of anatomy 208 (1), pp.91-97. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2006.00510.x)
2005
- Theobald, P. et al. 2005. Review of the vascularisation of the human Achilles tendon. Injury 36 (11), pp.1267-1272. (10.1016/j.injury.2005.02.012)
Articles
- Zhao, X. et al. 2026. Changes and compensatory gait mechanisms in lower extremity kinematics in patients with ACL rupture: a cross-sectional controlled study. Sports Health (10.1177/19417381261479683)
- Liu, T. et al. 2026. Tissue identity is the dominant determinant of cross-species transferability of a porcine developmental programme. BMC Genomics (10.1186/s12864-026-13103-0)
- Lei, R. et al. 2026. Age and region dependent biomechanical and ultrastructural differences in porcine white matter. Acta Biomaterialia 216 , pp.311-322. (10.1016/j.actbio.2026.04.013)
- Almutairi, A. B. et al., 2026. Knowledge and attitudes toward sport-related concussion among coaches and athletes in Middle East and North Africa region: Preliminary results. International journal of Sports Science and Coaching (10.1177/17479541261462097)
- Ahmad, F. et al., 2026. Quantifying regional and age-dependent microstructural changes in porcine ventricles from neonatal to adulthood using DT-MRI and TPEF-SHG microscopy. Annals of Biomedical Engineering (10.1007/s10439-026-04143-4)
- McCloskey, H. et al. 2025. Quantified head-ball impacts in soccer: a preliminary, prospective study. Neurotrauma Reports 6 (1), pp.928-943. (10.1177/2689288x251380145)
- Zhuan, X. et al., 2024. A mixed trigger volumetric growth law for cylindrical deformation in stressed configurations. Mathematics and Mechanics of Solids 29 (9), pp.1915-1931. (10.1177/10812865241242998)
- MacFarlane, M. et al. 2024. A novel methodology for simulating skin injury risk on synthetic playing surfaces. Lubricants 12 (6) 207. (10.3390/lubricants12060207)
- Barnes-Wood, M. et al. 2024. Investigation of head kinematics and brain strain response during soccer heading using a custom-fit instrumented mouthguard. Annals of Biomedical Engineering 52 , pp.934-945. (10.1007/s10439-023-03430-8)
- Ahmad, F. et al. 2023. Quantifying the microstructural and biomechanical changes in the porcine ventricles during growth and remodelling. Acta Biomaterialia 171 , pp.166-192. (10.1016/j.actbio.2023.09.044)
- Adams, R. , Soe, S. and Theobald, P. 2023. Optimisation of an elastomeric pre-buckled honeycomb helmet liner for advanced impact mitigation. Smart Materials and Structures 32 (9) 095012. (10.1088/1361-665x/ace94b)
- Lacan, F. et al. 2023. Towards using a multi-material, pellet-fed additive manufacturing platform to fabricate novel imaging phantoms. Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology 47 , pp.189-196. (10.1080/03091902.2023.2193267)
- Elfekky, M. et al. 2022. Causes of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction failure: A meta-analysis. Journal of Musculoskeletal Surgery and Research 6 , pp.193-199. (10.25259/JMSR_72_2022)
- Ramos, H. et al., 2022. Response of gyroid lattice structures to impact loads. International Journal of Impact Engineering 164 104202. (10.1016/j.ijimpeng.2022.104202)
- Adams, R. et al. 2022. Mechanical behaviour of additively manufactured elastomeric pre-buckled honeycombs under quasi-static and impact loading. Materials & Design 213 110368. (10.1016/j.matdes.2021.110368)
- Adams, R. et al. 2022. Finite element-based optimisation of an elastomeric honeycomb for impact mitigation in helmet liners. International Journal of Mechanical Sciences 214 106920. (10.1016/j.ijmecsci.2021.106920)
- Hanna, B. et al. 2021. Auxetic metamaterial optimisation for head impact mitigation in American football. International Journal of Impact Engineering 157 103991. (10.1016/j.ijimpeng.2021.103991)
- ALJawaee, M. A. et al. 2021. Does wobble board training improve balance in older adults? A systematic review. Physical Therapy Reviews 26 (6), pp.447-456. (10.1080/10833196.2021.1987042)
- MacFarlane, M. J. and Theobald, P. 2021. Skin tribology in sport. Biosurface and Biotribology 7 (3), pp.113-118. (10.1049/bsb2.12015)
- Soe, S. et al., 2021. Investigating the dynamic compression response of elastomeric, additively manufactured fluid-filled structures via experimental and finite element analyses. Additive Manufacturing 39 101885. (10.1016/j.addma.2021.101885)
- Townsend, S. et al. 2020. 3D printed origami honeycombs with tailored out-of-plane energy absorption behavior. Materials & Design 195 108930. (10.1016/j.matdes.2020.108930)
- Adams, R. et al. 2019. A novel pathway for efficient characterisation of additively manufactured thermoplastic elastomers. Materials and Design 180 107917. (10.1016/j.matdes.2019.107917)
- Guan, D. et al., 2019. On the AIC-based model reduction for the general Holzapfel-Ogden myocardial constitutive law. Biomechanics and Modeling in Mechanobiology 18 , pp.1213-1232. (10.1007/s10237-019-01140-6)
- Kandasamy, J. et al. 2019. Can real-time feedback improve the simulated infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance of basic life support and lay rescuers?. Archives of Disease in Childhood 104 (8), pp.493-801. (10.1136/archdischild-2018-316576)
- Malik, S. et al., 2019. An in-vitro animal bone model study to predict spiral fracture strength of long bones in the young infant. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma 10 (4), pp.744-749. (10.1016/j.jcot.2018.10.001)
- Robinson, M. et al. 2019. Mechanical characterisation of additively manufactured elastomeric structures for variable strain rate applications. Additive Manufacturing 27 , pp.-. (10.1016/j.addma.2019.03.022)
- Ahmad, F. et al. 2018. Biomechanical properties and microstructure of neonatal porcine ventricles. Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials 88 , pp.18-28. (10.1016/j.jmbbm.2018.07.038)
- Ahmad, F. et al. 2018. Region-specific microstructure in the neonatal ventricles of a porcine model. Annals of Biomedical Engineering 46 (12), pp.2162-2176. (10.1007/s10439-018-2089-4)
- Thangaraj, R. , Jones, M. D. and Theobald, P. 2018. Changes in frictional coefficient with increased tendon surface tear?An experimental animal model. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma 9 (S1), pp.S19-S25. (10.1016/j.jcot.2017.08.003)
- Jabi, W. et al. 2017. Enhancing parametric design through non-manifold topology. Design Studies 52 , pp.96-114. (10.1016/j.destud.2017.04.003)
- Jones, M. et al. 2017. Development and validation of a physical model to investigate the biomechanics of infant head impact. Forensic Science International 276 , pp.111-119. (10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.03.025)
- Jones, M. D. , Oates, B. and Theobald, P. 2016. Quantifying the biotribological properties of forehead skin to enhance head impact simulations. Biosurface and Biotribology 2 (2), pp.75-80.
- Swaminathan, R. et al. 2016. The prediction of neck extensor force using surface electromyography. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation 29 (2), pp.279-285. (10.3233/BMR-150626)
- Hughes, J. et al., 2016. Biomechanical characteristics of head injuries from falls in children younger than 48 months. Archives of Disease in Childhood 101 , pp.310-315. (10.1136/archdischild-2014-306803)
- Swaminathan, R. et al. 2016. Does the new rugby union scrum sequence positively influence the hooker's in situ spinal kinematics?. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine 2 (1) e000064. (10.1136/bmjsem-2015-000064)
- Alqhtani, R. S. et al., 2016. Investigating the contribution of the upper and lower lumbar spine, relative to hip motion, in everyday tasks. Manual Therapy 21 , pp.268-273. (10.1016/j.math.2015.09.014)
- Singh, R. et al., 2015. Motocross biking for competition and for recreation: a prospective analysis of 423 injured riders. BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine 1 (1) e000019. (10.1136/bmjsem-2015-000019)
- Jones, M. D. et al. 2015. Development of a computational biomechanical infant model for the investigation of infant head injury by shaking. Medicine, Science and the Law 55 (4), pp.291-299. (10.1177/0025802414564495)
- Swaminathan, M. et al., 2015. A kinematic analysis of the spine during rugby scrummaging on natural and synthetic turfs. Journal of Sports Sciences 34 (11), pp.1058-1066. (10.1080/02640414.2015.1088165)
- Soe, S. et al. 2015. Feasibility of optimising bicycle helmet design safety through the use of additive manufactured TPE cellular structures. International Journal of Advanced Manufacturing Technology 79 (9), pp.1975-1982. (10.1007/s00170-015-6972-y)
- Alqhtani, R. S. et al., 2015. Correlation of lumbar-hip kinematics between trunk flexion and other functional tasks. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 38 (6), pp.442-447. (10.1016/j.jmpt.2015.05.001)
- Alqhtani, R. S. et al., 2015. Reliability of an accelerometer-based system for quantifying multiregional spinal range of motion. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 38 (4), pp.275-281. (10.1016/j.jmpt.2014.12.007)
- Okhiria, D. et al. 2015. In vivo monitoring of orthopaedic implant wear using amorphous ribbons. IEEE Transactions on Magnetics 51 (1) 4002303. (10.1109/TMAG.2014.2356715)
- Rodger, M. P. , Theobald, P. and Giddins, G. 2014. Vein grafts to augment flexor tendon repairs: a biomechanical study on strength and gap resistance. Journal of Hand Surgery: European Volume 40 (7), pp.695-699. (10.1177/1753193414564902)
- Howieson, A. J. , Jones, M. D. and Theobald, P. 2014. The change in energy absorbed post removal of metalwork in a simulated paediatric long bone fracture. Journal of Children's Orthopaedics 8 (5), pp.443-447. (10.1007/s11832-014-0606-z)
- Williams, J. , Theobald, P. and Jones, M. D. 2014. Does the presence of a vertical barrier influence sagittal spinal curvature or range of motion in young females?. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation 27 (1), pp.71-75. (10.3233/BMR-130421)
- Singh, R. et al., 2014. Ankle fractures: a literature review of current treatment methods. Open Journal of Orthopedics 04 (11), pp.292-303. (10.4236/ojo.2014.411046)
- Biggs, P. et al. 2013. Development of a methodology for the standardisation and improvement of 'Smartphone' photography of patterned bruises and other cutaneous injuries. Science & Justice 53 (3), pp.358-362. (10.1016/j.scijus.2013.05.001)
- Khan, I. M. et al. 2013. In vitro growth factor-induced bio engineering of mature articular cartilage. Biomaterials 34 (5), pp.1478-1487. (10.1016/j.biomaterials.2012.09.076)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2013. Do chest compressions during simulated infant CPR comply with international recommendations?. Archives of Disease in Childhood 98 , pp.576-581. (10.1136/archdischild-2012-302583)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2013. Does a more "physiological" infant manikin design effect chest compression quality and create a potential for thoracic over-compression during simulated infant CPR?. Resuscitation 84 (5), pp.666-671. (10.1016/j.resuscitation.2012.10.005)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2013. Real-time feedback can improve infant manikin cardiopulmonary resuscitation by up to 79%- A randomised controlled trial. Resuscitation 84 (8), pp.1125-1130. (10.1016/j.resuscitation.2013.03.029)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2012. Tribological characteristics of healthy tendon. Journal of Biomechanics. 45 (11), pp.1972-1978. (10.1016/j.jbiomech.2012.05.005)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2012. Increased incidence of CPR-related rib fractures in infants - is it related to changes in CPR technique? [Letter]. Resuscitation 83 (4), pp.e109. (10.1016/j.resuscitation.2011.08.034)
- McGonagle, L. et al., 2012. Lubrication properties of commercially available anti-adhesive agents used in tendon repair [Abstract]. Orthopaedic Proceedings: a supplement of Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (British) 94-B (SXVIII), pp.60-60.
- McGonagle, L. J. et al. 2012. The bio-tribological properties of anti-adhesive agents commonly used during tendon repair. Journal of Orthopaedic Research 30 (5), pp.775-780. (10.1002/jor.21569)
- Theobald, P. , Jones, M. D. and Williams, J. M. 2012. Do inertial sensors represent a viable method to reliably measure cervical spine range of motion?. Manual Therapy 17 (1), pp.92-96. (10.1016/j.math.2011.06.007)
- Theobald, P. , Qureshi, A. and Jones, M. D. 2012. Biomechanical investigation into the torsional failure of immature long bone. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma 3 (1), pp.24-27. (10.1016/j.jcot.2012.02.001)
- Thomas, J. M. C. et al., 2011. The bio-tribological characteristics of synthetic tissue grafts. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine 225 (2), pp.141-148. (10.1243/09544119JEIM796)
- Jones, M. D. and Theobald, P. 2011. The potential effects of floor impact surfaces on infant head injury outcome during a short fall. Medicine, Science and the Law 51 (4), pp.203-207. (10.1258/msl.2011.011006)
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2011. Chest compression performance during infant CPR [Abstract]. Archives of Diseases in Childhood 96 (S1) A86. (10.1136/adc.2011.212563.200)
- Landham, P. R. et al., 2010. Friction as a potential cause of paratenonitis [Abstract]. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery 92-B (I 59)
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2010. The influence of strain rate on the angle of spiral fracture in paediatirc long bone [Abstract]. European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery 36 (S1), pp.141.
- Stokes, O. D. et al., 2010. Panoramic ultrasound to measure in vivo teno Achilles strain. Foot and Ankle International 31 (10), pp.905-909. (10.3113/FAI.2010.0905)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2010. The predicted risk of head injury from fall related impacts on to third-generation artificial turf and grass soccer surfaces: A comparative biomechanical analysis. Sports Biomechanics 9 (1), pp.29-37. (10.1080/14763141003690245)
- Ghazzawi, A. A. et al. 2009. Quantifying the motion of Kager's fat pad. Journal of Orthopaedic Research 27 (11), pp.1457-1460. (10.1002/jor.20900)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2009. Medical engineering at Cardiff University. Part 1: undergraduate programmes of study. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine 223 (4), pp.425-430. (10.1243/09544119JEIM533)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2009. Medical engineering at Cardiff University. Part 2: postgraduate programmes of study. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine 223 (4), pp.431-435. (10.1243/09544119JEIM534)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2007. Lubrication regime of the contact between fat and bone in bovine tissue. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of engineering in medicine 221 (4), pp.351-356. (10.1243/09544119JEIM176)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2006. The functional anatomy of Kager's fat pad in relation to retrocalcaneal problems and other hindfoot disorders. Journal of anatomy 208 (1), pp.91-97. (10.1111/j.1469-7580.2006.00510.x)
- Theobald, P. et al. 2005. Review of the vascularisation of the human Achilles tendon. Injury 36 (11), pp.1267-1272. (10.1016/j.injury.2005.02.012)
Book sections
- Theobald, P. 2013. Fat pad lubrication properties. In: Wang, Q. J. and Chung, Y. eds. Encyclopedia of Tribology. Springer. , pp.1022-1026. (10.1007/978-0-387-92897-5_1274)
Books
- Setchi, R. et al. 2016. Sustainable design and manufacturing 2016. Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Springer. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4)
Conferences
- Soe, S. et al. 2020. Using FFF and topology optimisation to increase crushing strength in equestrian helmets. Presented at: 7th International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing KES-SDM 2020 Virtual 9-11 Sept 2020. Published in: Scholz, S. G. , Howlett, R. J. and Setchi, R. eds. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2020. Vol. 200.Springer. , pp.369-377. (10.1007/978-981-15-8131-1_33)
- Robinson, M. et al., 2017. Developing elastomeric cellular structures for multiple head impacts. Presented at: 2017 IRCOBI Conference Antwerp, Belgium 13–15 September 2017.
- Davies, A. et al. 2016. Achieving sustainability in SME manufacturing operations via the use of flexible integrated technology and product symbiosis. Presented at: SDM 2016 Crete, Greece 4-6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 52.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Cham: Springer. , pp.281-293. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_25)
- Dorrington, P. , Lacan, F. A. and Bigot, S. 2016. How are micro enterprises adopting emergent technologies?. Presented at: 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing (SDM-2016) Chania, Greece 4-6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 52.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies (SIST) Vol. 52. Cham: Springer. , pp.215-226. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_19)
- Marsh, J. and Eyers, D. 2016. Increasing production efficiency through electronic batch record systems: a case study. Presented at: SDM 2016 Chania, Crete Greece 4 - 6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Vol. 52. Cham: , pp.261-269. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_23)
- Morris, A. , Setchi, R. and Prickett, P. W. 2016. Product change management and future information architectures. Presented at: Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016 Chania, Crete, Greece 5 - 8 April 2016.. Published in: Setchi, R. et al. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 1.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Vol. 52. Switzerland: Springer International Publishing. , pp.241-250. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_21)
- Soe, S. , Jabi, W. and Theobald, P. 2016. Evaluating innovative CAD techniques in the creation of conformal cellular structures. Presented at: 3rd International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing (SDM-2016) Heraklion, Greece 4-6 April 2016. Published in: Setchi, R. et al., Sustainable Design and Manufacturing 2016. Vol. 52.Smart Innovation, Systems and Technologies Springer International. , pp.387-397. (10.1007/978-3-319-32098-4_33)
- King, P. et al., 2015. Design, calibration and validation of a novel surface imaging tool for medical endoscopic applications. Presented at: 2015 IEEE International Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference (I2MTC) Pisa, Italy 11-14 May 2015. 2015 IEEE International Instrumentation and Measurement Technology Conference (I2MTC 2015). Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). , pp.1342-1348. (10.1109/I2MTC.2015.7151468)
- Soe, S. et al. 2015. Energy absorption characteristics of additively manufactured TPE cellular structures. Presented at: Second International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing Seville, Spain 12-14 April 2015.
- Soe, S. et al. 2014. Feasibility of using Duraform® flex lattice structures and additive manufacturing for optimising bicycle helmet design safety. Presented at: SDM'14: International Conference on Sustainable Design and Manufacturing Cardiff, Wales 28-30 April 2014. Sustainable Design and Manufacturing: SDM-14: Pre-Proceedings. Vol. 1.Vol. 1. England: KES International. , pp.278-290.
- Jones, M. , Cory, C. Z. and Theobald, P. 2011. Validation of the MADYMO facet human body model to simulate blunt ballistic impacts to the thorax. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011. Proceedings of the International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII, Brussels, Belgium, 2011. International Society of Biomechanics
- Jones, M. D. , Cory, C. and Theobald, P. 2011. Validation of the MADYMO facet human body model to simulate blunt ballistic impacts to the thorax. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Jones, M. D. , Dickson, J. and Theobald, P. 2011. Does wearing a cycle helmet increase the risk of a child sustaining a rotational head injury?. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Martin, P. et al. 2011. Chest compression quality during infant CPR. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2011. Computational simulation of head accelerations generated by the 'Shaken Baby Syndrome'. Presented at: ESB2010: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2011. Do chest compressions, during paediatric CPR, cause thoracic trauma?. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2011. The influence of strain rate on the angle of spiral fracture in paediatric long bone. Presented at: 12th European Congress of Trauma and Emergency Surgery Milan, Italy 21-30 April 2011.
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2011. The influence of strain rate on the angle of spiral fracture in paediatric long bone. Presented at: 12th European Congress of Trauma & Emergency Surgery Milan, Italy 27-30 April 2011.
- Theobald, P. and Jones, M. D. 2011. Does the potential adoption of IRB Regulation 22 expose soccer players to an increased risk of head injury?. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belgium 3-7 July 2011.
- Theobald, P. , Jones, M. D. and Williams, J. 2011. The use of attitude sensors to measure cervical spine ROM. Presented at: International Society of Biomechanics Congress XXIII Brussels, Belguim 3-7 July 2011.
- Theobald, P. , Qureshi, A. and Jones, M. D. 2011. Can the rotational speed to cause spiral fracture be estimated from the fracture pattern?. Presented at: Bone Research Society and British Orthopaedic Research Society Meeting Cambridge, UK 27-29 June 2011.
- Martin, P. S. et al. 2010. Development of a 9 month old model for the computational simulation of traumatic injuries to infants. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Qureshi, A. et al. 2010. Biomechanical investigation into the torsional failure of paediatric long bone. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Theobald, P. et al. 2010. The biomechanical consequence of removing the periosteum from paediatric bone exposed to spiral fracture. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Theobald, P. et al. 2010. Using head injury criterion (HIC) to assess the risk of concussion following head impact. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Thomas, J. M. et al., 2010. The lubrication of synthetic tissue grafts and healthy tendon. Presented at: 17th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics (ESB2010) Edinburgh, UK 5-8 July 2010.
- Landham, P. R. et al. 2008. A bio-tribological analysis of paratenonitis. Presented at: STLE/ASME 2008 International Joint Tribology Conference (IJTC2008) Miami, FL, USA 20-22 October 2008. Proceedings of the STLE/ASME 2008 International Joint Tribology Conference (IJTC2008), October 20–22, 2008 , Miami, Florida, USA. ASME Conference Proceedings New York, NY: ASME. , pp.131-133. (10.1115/IJTC2008-71158)
- Pullin, R. et al. 2007. Numerical determination of acoustic emission sensor response in plates using dispersion curves. Presented at: 7th International Conference on Damage Assessment of Structures (DAMAS 2007) Turin, Italy
- Theobald, P. et al. 2007. The Potential Frictional Significance of Kagers Fat Pad. Presented at: 53rd Annual Meeting of the Orthopaedic Research Society San Diego, USA
Thesis
- Theobald, P. 2006. Biomechanical analysis of the Achilles tendon enthesis organ. PhD Thesis , Cardiff University.
Research
Contracts
|
Title |
People |
Sponsor |
Value |
Duration |
|
Upgrading the small equipment base for early career researchers in the Engineering and Physical Sciences |
Holford K, Whatling G, Lees J, Anderson P I, Brousseau E, Cipcigan L M, Pullin R, Bigot S, Theobald P, Simpson R N, Kawashita L F, Clarke A |
EPSRC |
£498k |
01/11/2012 - 31/03/2013 |
|
Using 'digital' materials to establish a novel investigation platform for cardiac arrest |
Theobald P |
Ser Cymru NRN Sweasea |
£57k |
01/07/2014 - 30/06/2017 |
|
Validating the use of piezoelectric materials for novel application in bio-mechanical engineering |
Theobald P |
Royal Society |
£15k |
01/04/2013 - 31/03/2014 |
|
Optimising Impact protection through additive manufacturing |
Theobald P |
EPSRC via Nottingham University |
£3k |
15/08/2014 - 14/03/2015 |
|
Putting the 'Spark' Back into Electrical Engineering (Ingenius Public Engagement Grant) |
Theobald P |
Royal Academy of Engineering |
£30k |
01/04/2014 - 31/07/2015 |
|
Increasing the acceptance of safety headwear within the climbing |
Theobald P |
Welsh European Funding Office |
£40k |
01/03/2013 - 28/02/2014 |
|
Can providing 3D printing be used to enhance cardiopulmonary resucitation techniques? |
Theobald P, Clarke A |
Welsh Crucible |
£10k |
01/12/2013 - 31/08/2014 |
|
Biomechanical analysis of dual bridge plating |
Theobald P, Jones M |
Biomet Manufacturing LLC |
£25k |
01/06/2014 - 15/02/2015 |
|
The use of novel materials to enhance motorcyclist safety in developing countries |
Theobald P, M. Alves (Fellow) |
Royal Society - Newton Fund |
£12k |
01/11/2015 - 31/07/2017 |
|
New and novel materials to reduce head injury |
Theobald P, Soe S |
EPSRC IAA |
£20k |
15/06/2015 - 30/09/2015 |
|
Developing novel materials to enhance motorcycle safety |
Theobald P, Soe S |
KESS II |
£80k |
01/01/2016 - 31/12/2019 |
|
Quantifying probable region-specific microstructural and biomechanical variations In mature porcine tissue |
Theobald P |
EPSRC via Glasgow University |
£6k |
1/10/18 – 30/4/19 |
|
Growth and remodelling in the porcine heart – pushing mathematics through experiments |
Theobald P, Soe S, Yang X (in collaboration with Glasgow and Swansea Universities) |
EPSRC |
£341k (£800k total) |
01/05/2019-30/04/2022 |
|
Novel, rate-dependent material to enhance helmet liner performance |
Theobald P, Soe S |
Football Research Inc |
£80k |
01/03/2019-15/07/2020 |
|
Novel test device for the standardised measurement of skin friction on synthetic surfaces |
Theobald P |
World Rugby |
£57k |
01/07/2019-30/06/2022 |
|
Developing advanced protective materials via an enhanced understanding of brain injury |
Theobald P |
KESS II |
£82k |
01/10/2019-30/09/2022 |
|
Strategic investment in Cardiff University's functional material capabilities |
Graham K, Theobald P, Ladak S |
EPSRC |
01/11/2020- 30/04/2022 |
|
|
Soccer heading and head health |
Theobald P |
EPSRC IAA |
£14k |
01/11/2020 - 31/10/2021 |
|
Improving equestrian helmet performance |
Theobald P |
Innovate UK/KTP |
£278k |
01/01/2021-30/06/2023 |
|
Improving equestrian helmet performance |
Theobald P |
Welsh European Funding Office |
£22k |
01/01/2021-30/06/2023 |
|
Enhancing the adoption of a new test method for synthetic surfaces |
Theobald P |
EPSRC IAA |
£50k |
01/11/2023 - 31/12/2024 |
|
The use of sports tape to leverage further physiological benefits |
Theobald P |
SPORTTAPE |
£60k |
01/10/2024 - 31/03/2028 |
|
Reducing skin injuries by creating a new 'on-site' assessment tool |
Theobald P |
EPSRC IAA |
£35 |
04/04/2025 - 31/03/2026 |
|
Develop market-leading hats for the equestrian sector |
Theobald P |
KTP/Welsh Government |
£350k |
10/11/2025 - 09/11/2028 |
Teaching
I teach a range of subjects that consider musculoskeletal biomechanics, and how the implementation of innovative design can add to this valuable area. These modules include:
- EN2451 - Biomechanics 1, focussing on the fundamentals of the musculoskeletal system.
- EN3450 - Biomechanics 2, considering the implementation of emerging technologies to design and manufacture patient-specific surgical guides.
- EN4119 - Ergonomics, introducing a novel intervention that can improve and/or protect musculoskeletal functionality, with efficacy tested on a participant population.
I supervise undergraduate and postgraduate individual projects, and am a Personal Tutor to undergraduate Medical Engineering students. I am also a Senior Fellow at Advanced HE (formerly the Higher Education Academy).
Biography
My research focusses on healthcare engineering, spanning engineering and medicine. I am particularly interested in sport, and in resolvign challenges that are female-focussed. Alongside my team, we ambitiously aim to identify new and novel solutions that can reduce the risk of mortality and morbidity, injury and social injustice. Our research is of both a fundamental and applied nature, meaning we work with a range of academic, clinical and industrial collaborators within the UK and overseas. Internally, I hold memberships in both the High Value Manufacturing, and Medical Engineering, research groups.
My research team are primarily focussed on increasing inclusivity, or removing barriers to participation, in sport. We use our understanding of engineering and biology to better understand the anatomy and physiology of healthy and at-risk soft tisues, to then propose interventions that further enhance athlete participation. Under-represented populations, including the female athlete, are special interests. We perform fundamental science, whilst engaging with policy makers and industry, to maximise the impact of our unique knowledge and expertise.
My research also includes a wider spectrum of engineering applied to medicine, meaning we work with a range of clinical colleagues and academic collaborators within the UK and overseas. I am active in orthopaedics - especially looking at how additive manufacturing can improve patient care. We have also worked investigating how the biomechancial behaviour of cardiac tissue changes with age, included the recently ended project funded by the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council, alongside the prestigious SoftMECH centre (University of Glasgow) and Swansea University.
My career started in 2003, graduating in Medical Engineering from the University of Bradford (1st Class (Hons)), at the time being one of very few universities to offer such a programme. I moved to Cardiff School of Engineering to read my PhD in soft tissue biomechanics, focusing on the tendo Achilles insertion site. I performed a series of biomechanical and anatomical analyses, revealing the complex interaction between adjacent tissues that ensures the interface can withstand such high loads. I was supervised by Professor Len Nokes (School of Engineering), the late Professor Mike Benjamin (School of Biosciences) and the late Professor Colin Dent (School of Medicine).
I am now a recognised expert in this field and frequently review grants and papers, and examine students, across the UK and internationally.
Professional memberships
- Chartered Engineer (IMechE)
- Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers
- Senior Fellow of the Advanced HE (formerly the Higher Education Academy)
- ASTM (American Society for Testing & Materials) Member for F08: Sports equipment and facilities, including F08.53: Helmets
- British Standards committee member (Helmets for Equestrian Activities)
Academic positions
- 2020 - Present: Reader, School of Engineering, Cardiff University
- 2015 - 2020: Senior Lecturer, School of Engineering, Cardiff University
- 2007 - 2015: Lecturer, School of Engineering, Cardiff University
- 2006 - 2007: Postdoctoral Research Associate, School of Engineering, Cardiff University
Committees and reviewing
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Review Editor (Biomechanics) |
Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology |
2022 - present |
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Editorial Board Member |
Biosurface & Biotribology |
2020 - present |
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Editorial Board Member |
Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology |
2020 - present |
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Associate Peer Review College membership |
EPSRC |
2018 - present |
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Advisory Board Member |
Journal of Sports Science |
2017 - present |
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International Faculty Member |
International Congress of Joint Reconstruction (Middle East) |
2016 - present |
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Programme Chair |
Sustainable Design & Manufacturing |
2015 - 6 |
Journal Reviewer:
- Acta Physiologica
- J Biomech
- J Med Eng Tech
- Sports Biomech
- J Tribol
- J Orthop Res
- Friction
- J Eng Med
- J Sport Sci
- J Sci Med Sport
- Mat & Design
- Cardiology
- Bio Mod in Mech
- Med Eng Phys
- J Sports Eng Tech
Supervisions
My research group focuses on areas including:
- Inclusivity in sport, by focussing on under-represented athletes, including female and youth
- Head protection
- Injury prevention
- Light-weighting
- Energy absorption
- Additive manufacturing for medical application
- Orthopaedics
Please contact me using the above details should your interests lie within these areas
My current research students and their topics include:
| Title | Student | Status | Degree |
| ACL injury in the female athlete | ZHAO, Xuan | Current | PhD |
| Using tape to increase inclusivity in sport | BUTCHER, Freya | Current | PhD |
| Investigating the risk of anterior cruciate ligament rupture in female athletes | ZHANG, Xinkai | Current | PhD |
| Using finite element analysis as a platform to investigate osteoarthritis progression in the human hand | WEI, Han | Current | PhD |
| Using patient-specific approaches to minimise radiation exposure when surgically stabilising distal radial fractures | AL-NEHAYAN, Mansoor | Writing up | PhD |
| Developing advanced protective materials via an enhanced understanding of brain injury | MCCLOSKEY, Hugh | Writing up | PhD |
Current supervision
Past projects
My past PhD graduates and projects include:
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Dr Megan Barnes-Wood, PhD graduate 2026: |
An experimental-computational framework for quantifying football heading biomechanics |
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Dr Lanxi Xu, PhD graduate 2026: |
Multiscale characterisation of brain structure during development |
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Dr Rujing Lei, PhD graduate 2026: |
Age-related and regional variations in porcine brain white matter: an integrated biomechanical and ultrastructural investigation |
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Dr Jasmin Stoff, PhD graduate 2025: |
Multiphysical solutions for safety helmets |
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Dr Max MacFarlane, PhD graduate 2024: |
The skin injury device: a tribological analysis of rugby turf to enhance player welfare |
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Dr Rhosslyn Adams, PhD graduate 2022: |
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Dr Benjamin Hanna, PhD graduate 2021: |
Development of a metamaterial for use in Americal football head protection. |
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Dr Michael Robinson, PhD graduate 2020: |
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Dr Faizan Ahmad, PhD graduate 2018: |
Establishing the material parameters of the neonatal porcine ventricular myocardium |
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Dr Jeyapal Kandasamy, PhD graduate 2018: |
Can infant CPR performance be improved through the provision of 'real time' feedback |
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Dr Ghaidaa Khalid, PhD graduate 2018: |
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Dr Samar Shaabeth, PhD graduate 2018: |
Establishing a FSI platform for investigating infant cardiopulmonary resuscitation |
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Dr Raee Alqhtani, PhD graduate 2016: |
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Dr Ramesh Swaminathan, PhD graduate 2016: |
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Dr Jonathon Hughes, PhD graduate 2014: |
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Dr Philip Martin, PhD graduate 2013: |
News articles
Contact Details
[email protected]
+44 29208 74726
Queen's Buildings - South Building, Room S/2.10, 5 The Parade, Newport Road, Cardiff, CF24 3AA
+44 29208 74726
Queen's Buildings - South Building, Room S/2.10, 5 The Parade, Newport Road, Cardiff, CF24 3AA
Research themes
Specialisms
- Injury prevention
- Biomedical engineering
- Biomechanics
