Research news

Researchers at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust (UHDB) are leading a new study to tackle long-standing health inequalities in the Deaf* community - having been awarded over £100,000 from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). 

Led by Dr Anna Selby PhD, Research and Postgraduate Manager at the Pulvertaft Hand Centre, the research will bring together a partnership between UHDB, the University of Leeds and University of Sheffield, and two Derby-based charities – Communication Unlimited and the Royal School for the Deaf Derby (RSDD). The study is taking a fully participatory approach, ensuring that Deaf people are not just research subjects but active partners in shaping healthcare improvements.

In this latest update, view the first results from the MRI scans and our findings.

Congratulations to Dr Frances 'Fran' Game, Diabetologist and Clinical Director for Research and Development at University Hospitals of Derby and Burton, for being internationally recognised with the 2025 Medstar Georgetown Distinguished Achievement Award in Diabetic Limb Salvage. 

Researchers from the Pulvertaft Hand Centre at Royal Derby Hospital are leading the way in a pioneering national study to determine the most effective treatment for thumb base arthritis, a condition that affects millions of people across the UK.

Base of thumb osteoarthritis (BTOA) is a common and painful condition, affecting one in five people over the age of 40. The condition can make simple everyday tasks such as opening jars, turning keys, or even writing, extremely difficult. This can heavily impact the person's independence, work, and overall quality of life.

A research project at Florence Nightingale Community Hospital (FNCH) led by University of Plymouth, is looking for people who have Parkinson's Disease to improve their walking through Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES).