Autonomic Research Lab

The Cortez Autonomic and Sensory Physiology Lab’s mission is to understand the physiologic underpinnings of the most disabling symptoms experienced by sufferers of headaches, traumatic brain injury (TBI [aka concussion]), and other neurological disorders affecting sensory function and the autonomic nervous system.

These disorders commonly lead to diminished quality of life; disrupted engagement in physical and social activity; and chronic, disabling pain and fatigue. Our primary aim is to develop new tools that will advance patient-centered care by improving diagnosis, identifying patients at risk of progression, and informing mechanism-based treatment for those suffering from these poorly understood conditions.