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In Kim J, Choi J, Kim J, Song J, Park J, Park YL. Bilateral Back Extensor Exosuit for multidimensional assistance and prevention of spinal injuries. Sci Robot 2024; 9:eadk6717. [PMID: 39047076 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.adk6717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Lumbar spine injuries resulting from heavy or repetitive lifting remain a prevalent concern in workplaces. Back-support devices have been developed to mitigate these injuries by aiding workers during lifting tasks. However, existing devices often fall short in providing multidimensional force assistance for asymmetric lifting, an essential feature for practical workplace use. In addition, validation of device safety across the entire human spine has been lacking. This paper introduces the Bilateral Back Extensor Exosuit (BBEX), a robotic back-support device designed to address both functionality and safety concerns. The design of the BBEX draws inspiration from the anatomical characteristics of the human spine and back extensor muscles. Using a multi-degree-of-freedom architecture and serially connected linear actuators, the device's components are strategically arranged to closely mimic the biomechanics of the human spine and back extensor muscles. To establish the efficacy and safety of the BBEX, a series of experiments with human participants was conducted. Eleven healthy male participants engaged in symmetric and asymmetric lifting tasks while wearing the BBEX. The results confirm the ability of the BBEX to provide effective multidimensional force assistance. Moreover, comprehensive safety validation was achieved through analyses of muscle fatigue in the upper and the lower erector spinae muscles, as well as mechanical loading on spinal joints during both lifting scenarios. By seamlessly integrating functionality inspired by human biomechanics with a focus on safety, this study offers a promising solution to address the persistent challenge of preventing lumbar spine injuries in demanding work environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae In Kim
- Samsung Electronics, Suwon, Korea
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jaeyoun Choi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Junhyung Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Engineering Research, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Junkyung Song
- Department of Physical Education, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Sport Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jaebum Park
- Department of Physical Education, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Sport Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Yong-Lae Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
- Institute of Engineering Research, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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Glover NA, Chaudhari AM. Neuromuscular and trunk control mediate factors associated with injury in fatigued runners. J Biomech 2024; 170:112176. [PMID: 38820995 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine how fatigue affects factors associated with injury, neuromuscular activity, and control in recreational runners. Previously identified injury risk factors were defined as peak vertical instantaneous loading rates (pVILR) for tibial stress fracture (TSF) and peak hip adduction (pHADD) for patellofemoral pain syndrome and iliotibial band syndrome. Kinematics, kinetics, and electromyography data were collected from 11 recreational runners throughout a fatiguing run. Three trials were collected in the first and final minutes of the run. Coactivation was quantified about the knee and ankle for the entire stance phase and anticipatory, weight acceptance (WA), and propulsion sub-phases of stance. Trunk control was quantified by the peak mediolateral lean, peak forward lean, and flexion range of motion (ROM). There were significant increases in pHADD and pVILR when fatigued. Significant decreases in coactivation around the knee were found over the entire stance phase, in the anticipatory phase, and WA phase. Coactivation decreased about the ankle during WA. Lateral trunk lean significantly increased when fatigued, but no significant changes were found in flexion ROM or lean. Mediation analyses showed changes in ankle coactivation during WA, and lateral trunk lean are significant influences on pVILR, a measure associated with TSF. Fatigue-induced adaptations of decreasing ankle coactivation during WA and increased lateral trunk lean may increase the likelihood of TSF. In this study, a fatiguing run influenced changes in control in recreational runners. Further investigation of causal fatigue-induced injuries is necessary to better understand the effects of coactivation and trunk control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson A Glover
- Department of Bioengineering, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, United States.
| | - Ajit Mw Chaudhari
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Zhang Z, Zou J, Lu P, Hu J, Cai Y, Xiao C, Li G, Zeng Q, Zheng M, Huang G. Analysis of lumbar spine loading during walking in patients with chronic low back pain and healthy controls: An OpenSim-Based study. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1377767. [PMID: 38817923 PMCID: PMC11138492 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1377767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent and disabling disease worldwide. However, the specific biomechanical changes due to LBP are still controversial. The purpose of this study was to estimate the lumbar and lower limb kinematics, lumbar moments and loads, muscle forces and activation during walking in healthy adults and LBP. A total of 18 healthy controls and 19 patients with chronic LBP were tested for walking at a comfortable speed. The kinematic and dynamic data of the subjects were collected by 3D motion capture system and force plates respectively, and then the motion simulation was performed by OpenSim. The OpenSim musculoskeletal model was used to calculate lumbar, hip, knee and ankle joint angle variations, lumbar moments and loads, muscle forces and activation of eight major lumbar muscles. In our results, significant lower lumbar axial rotation angle, lumbar flexion/extension and axial rotation moments, as well as the muscle forces of the four muscles and muscle activation of two muscles were found in patients with LBP than those of the healthy controls (p < 0.05). This study may help providing theoretical support for the evaluation and rehabilitation treatment intervention of patients with LBP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuodong Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jihua Zou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Rehabilitation Studies, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pengcheng Lu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jinjing Hu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxin Cai
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chongwu Xiao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Gege Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Zeng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Manxu Zheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - GuoZhi Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- School of Rehabilitation Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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Sturdy JT, Sessoms PH, Silverman AK. Psoas force recruitment in full-body musculoskeletal movement simulations is restored with a geometrically informed cost function weighting. J Biomech 2024; 168:112130. [PMID: 38713998 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.112130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Simulations of musculoskeletal models are useful for estimating internal muscle and joint forces. However, predicted forces rely on optimization and modeling formulations. Geometric detail is important to predict muscle forces, and greater geometric complexity is required for muscles that have broad attachments or span many joints, as in the torso. However, the extent to which optimized muscle force recruitment is sensitive to these geometry choices is unclear. We developed level, uphill and downhill sloped walking simulations using a standard (uniformly weighted, "fatigue-like") cost function with lower limb and full-body musculoskeletal models to evaluate hip muscle recruitment with different geometric representations of the psoas muscle under walking conditions with varying hip moment demands. We also tested a novel cost function formulation where muscle activations were weighted according to the modeled geometric detail in the full-body model. Total psoas force was less and iliacus, rectus femoris, and other hip flexors' force was greater when psoas was modeled with greater geometric detail compared to other hip muscles for all slopes. The proposed weighting scheme restored hip muscle force recruitment without sacrificing detailed psoas geometry. In addition, we found that lumbar, but not hip, joint contact forces were influenced by psoas force recruitment. Our results demonstrate that static optimization dependent simulations using models comprised of muscles with different amounts of geometric detail bias force recruitment toward muscles with less geometric detail. Muscle activation weighting that accounts for differences in geometric complexity across muscles corrects for this recruitment bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan T Sturdy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, USA.
| | - Pinata H Sessoms
- Warfighter Performance Department, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Anne K Silverman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, USA; Quantitative Biosciences and Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, USA
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Kazemi Z, Arjmand N, Mazloumi A, Karimi Z, Keihani A, Ghasemi MS. Effect of muscular fatigue on the cumulative lumbar damage during repetitive lifting task: a comparative study of damage calculation methods. ERGONOMICS 2024; 67:566-581. [PMID: 37418312 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2234678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Several methods have been put forward to quantify cumulative loads; however, limited evidence exists as to the subsequent damages and the role of muscular fatigue. The present study assessed whether muscular fatigue could affect cumulative damage imposed on the L5-S1 joint. Trunk muscle electromyographic (EMG) activities and kinematics/kinetics of 18 healthy male individuals were evaluated during a simulated repetitive lifting task. A traditional EMG-assisted model of the lumbar spine was modified to account for the effect of erector spinae fatigue. L5-S1 compressive loads for each lifting cycle were estimated based on varying (i.e. actual), fatigue-modified, and constant Gain factors. The corresponding damages were integrated to calculate the cumulative damage. Moreover, the damage calculated for one lifting cycle was multiplied by the lifting frequency, as the traditional approach. Compressive loads and the damages obtained through the fatigue-modified model were predicted in close agreement with the actual values. Similarly, the difference between actual damages and those driven by the traditional approach was not statistically significant (p = 0.219). However, damages based on a constant Gain factor were significantly greater than those based on the actual (p = 0.012), fatigue-modified (p = 0.017), and traditional (p = 0.007) approaches.Practitioner summary: In this study, we managed to include the effect of muscular fatigue on cumulative lumbar damage calculations. Including the effect of muscular fatigue leads to an accurate estimation of cumulative damages while eliminating computational complexity. However, using the traditional approach also appears to provide acceptable estimates for ergonomic assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Kazemi
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Navid Arjmand
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Adel Mazloumi
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zanyar Karimi
- Department of Ergonomics, School of Public Health, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Keihani
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Guenanten H, Retailleau M, Dorel S, Sarcher A, Colloud F, Nordez A. Muscle-Tendon Unit Length Measurement Using 3D Ultrasound in Passive Conditions: OpenSim Validation and Development of Personalized Models. Ann Biomed Eng 2024; 52:997-1008. [PMID: 38286938 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03436-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the validity of using OpenSim to measure muscle-tendon unit (MTU) length of the bi-articular lower limb muscles in several postures (shortened, lengthened, a combination of shortened and lengthened involving both joints, neutral and standing) using 3D freehand ultrasound (US), and to propose new personalized models. MTU length was measured on 14 participants and 6 bi-articular muscles (semimembranosus SM, semitendinosus ST, biceps femoris BF, rectus femoris RF, gastrocnemius medialis GM and gastrocnemius lateralis GL), considering 5 to 6 postures. MTU length was computed using OpenSim with three different models: OS (the generic OpenSim scaled model), OS + INSER (OS with personalized 3D US MTU insertions), OS + INSER + PATH (OS with personalized 3D US MTU insertions and path obtained from one posture). Significant differences in MTU length were found between OS and 3D US models for RF, GM and GL (from - 6.3 to 10.9%). Non-significant effects were reported for the hamstrings, notably for the ST (- 1.5%) and BF (- 1.9%), while the SM just crossed the alpha level (- 3.4%, p = 0.049). The OS + INSER model reduced the magnitude of bias by an average of 4% for RF, GM and GL. The OS + INSER + PATH model showed the smallest biases in length estimates, which made them negligible and non-significant for all the MTU (i.e. ≤ 2.2%). A 3D US pipeline was developed and validated to estimate the MTU length from a limited number of measurements. This opens up new perspectives for personalizing musculoskeletal models using low-cost user-friendly devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Guenanten
- Nantes Université, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, UR 4334, 44000, Nantes, France
- Institut Pprime, CNRS, Université de Poitiers, ISAE-ENSMA, UPR 3346, 86360, Chasseneuil-du-Poitou, France
| | - Maëva Retailleau
- Nantes Université, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, UR 4334, 44000, Nantes, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Sylvain Dorel
- Nantes Université, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, UR 4334, 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Aurélie Sarcher
- Nantes Université, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, UR 4334, 44000, Nantes, France
| | - Floren Colloud
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Nordez
- Nantes Université, Movement - Interactions - Performance, MIP, UR 4334, 44000, Nantes, France.
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France.
- , 23, rue du Recteur Schmitt Bât F0 - BP 92235, 44322, Nantes Cedex 3, France.
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Butowicz CM, Golyski PR, Acasio JC, Hendershot BD. Comparing spinal loads in individuals with unilateral transtibial amputation with and without chronic low back pain: An EMG-informed approach. J Biomech 2024; 166:111966. [PMID: 38373872 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2024.111966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Chronic low back pain (cLBP) is highly prevalent after lower limb amputation (LLA), likely due in part to biomechanical factors. Here, three-dimensional full-body kinematics and kinetics during level-ground walking, at a self-selected and three controlled speeds (1.0, 1.3, and 1.6 m/s), were collected from twenty-one persons with unilateral transtibial LLA, with (n = 9) and without cLBP (n = 12). Peak compressive, mediolateral, and anteroposterior L5-S1 spinal loads were estimated from a full-body, transtibial amputation-specific OpenSim model and compared between groups. Predicted lumbar joint torques from muscle activations were compared to inverse dynamics and predicted and measured electromyographic muscle activations were compared for model evaluation and verification. There were no group differences in compressive or anterior shear forces (p > 0.466). During intact stance, peak ipsilateral loads increased with speed to a greater extent in the cLBP group vs. no cLBP group (p=0.023), while during prosthetic stance, peak contralateral loads were larger in the no cLBP group (p=0.047) and increased to a greater extent with walking speed compared to the cLBP group (p=0.008). During intact stance, intact side external obliques had higher activations in the no cLBP group (p=0.039), and internal obliques had higher activations in the cLBP group at faster walking speeds compared to the no cLBP group. Predicted muscle activations demonstrated similar activation patterns to electromyographic-measured activations (r = 0.56-0.96), and error between inverse dynamics and simulated spinal moments was low (0.08 Nm RMS error). Persons with transtibial LLA and cLBP may adopt movement strategies during walking to reduce mediolateral shear forces at the L5-S1 joint, particularly as walking speed increases. However, future work is needed to understand the time course from pain onset to chronification and the cumulative influence of increased spinal loads over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney M Butowicz
- Research & Surveillance Section, Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, VA 22042, United States; Department of Rehabilitation, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, United States; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States.
| | - Pawel R Golyski
- Research & Surveillance Section, Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, VA 22042, United States; Department of Rehabilitation, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, United States
| | - Julian C Acasio
- Research & Surveillance Section, Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, VA 22042, United States; Department of Rehabilitation, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, United States
| | - Brad D Hendershot
- Research & Surveillance Section, Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, VA 22042, United States; Department of Rehabilitation, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, United States; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, United States
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Chen ZH, Pandy M, Huang TY, Tang WT. Does Overhead Squat Performance Affect the Swing Kinematics and Lumbar Spine Loads during the Golf Downswing? SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:1252. [PMID: 38400409 PMCID: PMC10893031 DOI: 10.3390/s24041252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
The performance of the overhead squat may affect the golf swing mechanics associated with golf-related low back pain. This study investigates the difference in lumbar kinematics and joint loads during the golf downswing between golfers with different overhead squat abilities. Based on the performance of the overhead squat test, 21 golfers aged 18 to 30 years were divided into the highest-scoring group (HS, N = 10, 1.61 ± 0.05 cm, and 68.06 ± 13.67 kg) and lowest-scoring group (LS, N = 11, 1.68 ± 0.10 cm, and 75.00 ± 14.37 kg). For data collection, a motion analysis system, two force plates, and TrackMan were used. OpenSim 4.3 software was used to simulate the joint loads for each lumbar joint. An independent t-test was used for statistical analysis. Compared to golfers demonstrating limitations in the overhead squat test, golfers with better performance in the overhead squat test demonstrated significantly greater angular extension displacement on the sagittal plane, smaller lumbar extension angular velocity, and smaller L4-S1 joint shear force. Consequently, the overhead squat test is a useful index to reflect lumbar kinematics and joint loading patterns during the downswing and provides a good training guide reference for reducing the risk of a golf-related lower back injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Han Chen
- MSc and MPE Dual Programme in International Sport Coaching Science, National Taiwan Sport University, Taoyuan City 33301, Taiwan;
- MSc and MPE Dual Programme in International Sport Coaching Science, University of Physical Education, 1123 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Marcus Pandy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia;
| | - Tsung-Yu Huang
- Graduate Institute of Athletic and Coaching Science, National Taiwan Sport University, Taoyuan City 33301, Taiwan;
| | - Wen-Tzu Tang
- Graduate Institute of Athletic and Coaching Science, National Taiwan Sport University, Taoyuan City 33301, Taiwan;
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Yin W, Chen Y, Reddy C, Zheng L, Mehta RK, Zhang X. Flexible sensor-based biomechanical evaluation of low-back exoskeleton use in lifting. ERGONOMICS 2024; 67:182-193. [PMID: 37204270 DOI: 10.1080/00140139.2023.2216408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to establish an ambulatory field-friendly system based on miniaturised wireless flexible sensors for studying the biomechanics of human-exoskeleton interactions. Twelve healthy adults performed symmetric lifting with and without a passive low-back exoskeleton, while their movements were tracked using both a flexible sensor system and a conventional motion capture (MoCap) system synchronously. Novel algorithms were developed to convert the raw acceleration, gyroscope, and biopotential signals from the flexible sensors into kinematic and dynamic measures. Results showed that these measures were highly correlated with those obtained from the MoCap system and discerned the effects of the exoskeleton, including increased peak lumbar flexion, decreased peak hip flexion, and decreased lumbar flexion moment and back muscle activities. The study demonstrated the promise of an integrated flexible sensor-based system for biomechanics and ergonomics field studies as well as the efficacy of exoskeleton in relieving the low-back stress associated with manual lifting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Yin
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Yinong Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Curran Reddy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Liying Zheng
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Ranjana K Mehta
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Xudong Zhang
- Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Miller RH, Bell EM, Russell Esposito E. Transfemoral limb loss modestly increases the metabolic cost of optimal control simulations of walking. PeerJ 2024; 12:e16756. [PMID: 38223753 PMCID: PMC10785795 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background In transtibial limb loss, computer simulations suggest that the maintenance of muscle strength between pre- and post-limb loss can maintain the pre-limb loss metabolic cost. These results are consistent with comparable costs found experimentally in select cases of high functioning military service members with transtibial limb loss. It is unlikely that similar results would be found with transfemoral limb loss, although the theoretical limits are not known. Here we performed optimal control simulations of walking with and without an above-knee prosthesis to determine if transfemoral limb loss per se increases the metabolic cost of walking. Methods OpenSim Moco was used to generate optimal control simulations of walking in 15 virtual "subjects" that minimized the weighted sum of (i) deviations from average able-bodied gait mechanics and (ii) the gross metabolic cost of walking, pre-limb loss in models with two intact biological limbs, and post-limb loss with one of the limbs replaced by a prosthetic knee and foot. No other changes were made to the model. Metabolic cost was compared between pre- and post-limb loss simulations in paired t-tests. Results Metabolic cost post-limb loss increased by 0.7-9.3% (p < 0.01) depending on whether cost was scaled by total body mass or biological body mass and on whether the prosthetic knee was passive or non-passive. Conclusions Given that the post-limb loss model had numerous features that predisposed it to low metabolic cost, these results suggest transfemoral limb loss per se increases the metabolic cost of walking. However, the large differences above able-bodied peers of ∼20-45% in most gait analysis experiments may be avoidable, even when minimizing deviations from able-bodied gait mechanics. Portions of this text were previously published as part of a preprint (https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.06.26.546515v2.full.pdf).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ross H. Miller
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, MD, United States of America
- Neuroscience and Cognitive Science Program, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth M. Bell
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Maryland at College Park, College Park, MD, United States of America
- Department of Kinesiology, Towson University, Towson, MD, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Russell Esposito
- Military Operational Medicine Research Program, Fort Detrick, MD, United States of America
- Extremity Trauma and Amputation Center of Excellence, Fort Sam Houston, TX, United States of America
- Center for Limb Loss and Mobility, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, United States of America
- Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA, United States of America
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
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11
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Sibson BE, Banks JJ, Yawar A, Yegian AK, Anderson DE, Lieberman DE. Using inertial measurement units to estimate spine joint kinematics and kinetics during walking and running. Sci Rep 2024; 14:234. [PMID: 38168540 PMCID: PMC10762015 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50652-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Optical motion capture (OMC) is considered the best available method for measuring spine kinematics, yet inertial measurement units (IMU) have the potential to collect data outside the laboratory. When combined with musculoskeletal modeling, IMU technology may be used to estimate spinal loads in real-world settings. To date, IMUs have not been validated for estimates of spinal movement and loading during both walking and running. Using OpenSim Thoracolumbar Spine and Ribcage models, we compare IMU and OMC estimates of lumbosacral (L5/S1) and thoracolumbar (T12/L1) joint angles, moments, and reaction forces during gait across six speeds for five participants. For comparisons, time series are ensemble averaged over strides. Comparisons between IMU and OMC ensemble averages have low normalized root mean squared errors (< 0.3 for 81% of comparisons) and high, positive cross-correlations (> 0.5 for 91% of comparisons), suggesting signals are similar in magnitude and trend. As expected, joint moments and reaction forces are higher during running than walking for IMU and OMC. Relative to OMC, IMU overestimates joint moments and underestimates joint reaction forces by 20.9% and 15.7%, respectively. The results suggest using a combination of IMU technology and musculoskeletal modeling is a valid means for estimating spinal movement and loading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin E Sibson
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Jacob J Banks
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ali Yawar
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Andrew K Yegian
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Dennis E Anderson
- Center for Advanced Orthopedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daniel E Lieberman
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
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12
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Tian Y, Chen X, Liu Y, Sun G, Zhou Z, Liu C, Huo B. Effects of poling camber angle on the biomechanics of cross-country sit-skiing. Sci Rep 2023; 13:20893. [PMID: 38017144 PMCID: PMC10684654 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48359-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cross-country sit-skiers use double poling (DP) technique to drive the slide. The aim of this study is to analyze how poling camber angle affect the capacity of power output and biomechanical parameters of the DP process. Twenty-four non-disabled college students (24.67 ± 1.46 years old) were recruited to perform three successive 30-s maximal effort tests with different poling camber angles of 0°, 15°, 24° and 30° using a sit-skiing ergometer. The biomechanical parameters, output power and muscle activation of the subjects were analyzed. The results showed that DP output power increased with the increase of poling camber angle at 15° (597.78 ± 150.31 J), 24° (610.94 ± 158.96 J, P = 0.011) and 30° (629.10 ± 168.78 J, P < 0.001) compared with 0° (590.65 ± 148.95 J). However, effective output power decreased with the increase of camber angle. Poling with camber angle of 24° had the shortest cycle time 1.53 ± 0.17 s, compared with other abduction angle (0°, 1.57 ± 0.19 s, 15°, 1.55 ± 0.16 s, and 30°, 1.56 ± 0.19 s). Compared with 0° (1.02 ± 0.14 m), the cycle distance significantly increased at poling camber angles of 24° (1.07 ± 0.12 m, P = 0.029) and 30° (1.11 ± 0.13 m, P < 0.001). With the increase of poling camber angle, the shoulder and elbow joint range of motions and joint moments were significantly increased. This study found that poling with shoulder abducted increased the output power but decreased the efficiency. By analyzing the poling angle and poling force, we find that the optimal poling camber angle may depend on the terrain or the skiing speed. These results may guide the competition techniques and tactics in the matches, and may further influence the strength-training programs of cross-country sit-skiing athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Tian
- Sports Biomechanics Center, Sports Artificial Intelligence Institute, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, No. 11 North Third Ring Road West, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Xue Chen
- Biomechanics Lab, Department of Mechanics, School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, No. 5 South Zhongguancun Street, Beijing, 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Yujie Liu
- Sports Biomechanics Center, Sports Artificial Intelligence Institute, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, No. 11 North Third Ring Road West, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Sun
- Sports Biomechanics Center, Sports Artificial Intelligence Institute, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, No. 11 North Third Ring Road West, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhixiong Zhou
- School of Physical Education and Coaching Science, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenglin Liu
- Sports Biomechanics Center, Sports Artificial Intelligence Institute, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, No. 11 North Third Ring Road West, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bo Huo
- Sports Biomechanics Center, Sports Artificial Intelligence Institute, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, No. 11 North Third Ring Road West, Beijing, 100191, People's Republic of China.
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13
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Zhang S, Kui H, Liu X, Zhang Z. Analysis of Musculoskeletal Biomechanics of Lower Limbs of Drivers in Pedal-Operation States. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:8897. [PMID: 37960596 PMCID: PMC10649989 DOI: 10.3390/s23218897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
In this study, to establish the biomechanical characteristics of commercial vehicle drivers' muscles and bones while operating the three pedals, a driver pedal-operation simulator was built, and the real-life situation was reconstructed in OpenSim 3.3 software. We set up three seat heights to investigate the drivers' lower limbs, and the research proceeded in two parts: experiment and simulation. Chinese adult males in the 95th percentile were selected as the research participants. In the experiment, Delsys wireless surface electromyography (EMG) sensors were used to collect the EMG signals of the four main muscle groups of the lower limbs when the drivers operated the three pedals. Then, we analyzed the muscle activation and the degree of muscle fatigue. The simulation was based on OpenSim software to analyze the driver's lower limb joint angles and joint torque. The results show that the activation of the hamstrings, gastrocnemius, and rectus femoris muscles were higher in the four muscle groups. In respect of torque, in most cases, hip joint torque > knee joint torque > ankle joint torque. The knee joint angles were the largest, and the ankle joint angles changed the most. The experimental results provide a reference for improving drivers' handling comfort in commercial vehicles and provide theoretical bases for cab design and layout optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Zhang
- Department of Automotive Engineering, Hebei Jiaotong Vocational and Technical College, Shijiazhuang 050035, China;
- Transportation College, Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Hailin Kui
- College of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Xiangyu Liu
- College of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130022, China
| | - Zhonglin Zhang
- College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China
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14
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Alemi MM, Banks JJ, Lynch AC, Allaire BT, Bouxsein ML, Anderson DE. EMG Validation of a Subject-Specific Thoracolumbar Spine Musculoskeletal Model During Dynamic Activities in Older Adults. Ann Biomed Eng 2023; 51:2313-2322. [PMID: 37353715 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-023-03273-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/25/2023]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal models can uniquely estimate in vivo demands and injury risk. In this study, we aimed to compare muscle activations from subject-specific thoracolumbar spine OpenSim models with recorded muscle activity from electromyography (EMG) during five dynamic tasks. Specifically, 11 older adults (mean = 65 years, SD = 9) lifted a crate weighted to 10% of their body mass in axial rotation, 2-handed sagittal lift, 1-handed sagittal lift, and lateral bending, and simulated a window opening task. EMG measurements of back and abdominal muscles were directly compared to equivalent model-predicted activity for temporal similarity via maximum absolute normalized cross-correlation (MANCC) coefficients and for magnitude differences via root-mean-square errors (RMSE), across all combinations of participants, dynamic tasks, and muscle groups. We found that across most of the tasks the model reasonably predicted temporal behavior of back extensor muscles (median MANCC = 0.92 ± 0.07) but moderate temporal similarity was observed for abdominal muscles (median MANCC = 0.60 ± 0.20). Activation magnitude was comparable to previous modeling studies, and median RMSE was 0.18 ± 0.08 for back extensor muscles. Overall, these results indicate that our thoracolumbar spine model can be used to estimate subject-specific in vivo muscular activations for these dynamic lifting tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mehdi Alemi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave, RN119, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
| | - Jacob J Banks
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew C Lynch
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Brett T Allaire
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mary L Bouxsein
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dennis E Anderson
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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15
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Huang Y, Jiang L, Chen X, Sun Q, Zhang X, Tan X, Du Y, Zhang F, Wang N, Su R, Qu F, Zhang G, Huo B. Musculoskeletal simulation of professional ski jumpers during take-off considering aerodynamic forces. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1241135. [PMID: 37720321 PMCID: PMC10501566 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1241135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Musculoskeletal simulation has been widely used to analyze athletes' movements in various competitive sports, but never in ski jumping. Aerodynamic forces during ski jumping take-off have been difficult to account for in dynamic simulation. The purpose of this study was to establish an efficient approach of musculoskeletal simulation of ski jumping take-off considering aerodynamic forces and to analyze the muscle function and activity. Methods: Camera-based marker-less motion capture was implemented to measure the take-off kinematics of eight professional jumpers. A suitable full-body musculoskeletal model was constructed for the simulation. A method based on inverse dynamics iteration was developed and validated to estimate the take-off ground reaction force. The aerodynamic forces, which were calculated based on body kinematics and computational fluid dynamics simulations, were exerted on the musculoskeletal model as external forces. The activation and joint torque contributions of lower extremity muscles were calculated through static optimization. Results: The estimated take-off ground reaction forces show similar trend with the results from past studies. Although overall inconsistencies between simulated muscle activation and EMG from previous studies were observed, it is worth noting that the activation of the tibialis anterior, gluteus maximus, and long head of the biceps femoris was similar to specific EMG results. Among lower extremity extensors, soleus, vastus lateralis, biceps femoris long head, gluteus maximus, and semimembranosus showed high levels of activation and joint extension torque contribution. Discussion: Results of this study advanced the understanding of muscle action during ski jumping take-off. The simulation approach we developed may help guide the physical training of jumpers for improved take-off performance and can also be extended to other phases of ski jumping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Huang
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Liang Jiang
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xue Chen
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Sun
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Xunan Tan
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Du
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Fangtong Zhang
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Nannan Wang
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Rufeng Su
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence in Sports, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Qu
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Beijing Sport University, Beijing, China
| | - Guoqing Zhang
- School of Aerospace Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Huo
- Institute of Artificial Intelligence in Sports, Capital University of Physical Education and Sports, Beijing, China
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16
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Meszaros-Beller L, Hammer M, Schmitt S, Pivonka P. Effect of neglecting passive spinal structures: a quantitative investigation using the forward-dynamics and inverse-dynamics musculoskeletal approach. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1135531. [PMID: 37324394 PMCID: PMC10264677 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1135531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Inverse-dynamics (ID) analysis is an approach widely used for studying spine biomechanics and the estimation of muscle forces. Despite the increasing structural complexity of spine models, ID analysis results substantially rely on accurate kinematic data that most of the current technologies are not capable to provide. For this reason, the model complexity is drastically reduced by assuming three degrees of freedom spherical joints and generic kinematic coupling constraints. Moreover, the majority of current ID spine models neglect the contribution of passive structures. The aim of this ID analysis study was to determine the impact of modelled passive structures (i.e., ligaments and intervertebral discs) on remaining joint forces and torques that muscles must balance in the functional spinal unit. Methods: For this purpose, an existing generic spine model developed for the use in the demoa software environment was transferred into the musculoskeletal modelling platform OpenSim. The thoracolumbar spine model previously used in forward-dynamics (FD) simulations provided a full kinematic description of a flexion-extension movement. By using the obtained in silico kinematics, ID analysis was performed. The individual contribution of passive elements to the generalised net joint forces and torques was evaluated in a step-wise approach increasing the model complexity by adding individual biological structures of the spine. Results: The implementation of intervertebral discs and ligaments has significantly reduced compressive loading and anterior torque that is attributed to the acting net muscle forces by -200% and -75%, respectively. The ID model kinematics and kinetics were cross-validated against the FD simulation results. Conclusion: This study clearly shows the importance of incorporating passive spinal structures on the accurate computation of remaining joint loads. Furthermore, for the first time, a generic spine model was used and cross-validated in two different musculoskeletal modelling platforms, i.e., demoa and OpenSim, respectively. In future, a comparison of neuromuscular control strategies for spinal movement can be investigated using both approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Meszaros-Beller
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Maria Hammer
- Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Center for Simulation Science (SC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Syn Schmitt
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
- Stuttgart Center for Simulation Science (SC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Peter Pivonka
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Centre for Biomedical Technologies, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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17
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Xiang Y, Zaman R, Arefeen A, Quarnstrom J, Rakshit R, Yang J. Hybrid musculoskeletal model-based 3D asymmetric lifting prediction and comparison with symmetric lifting. Proc Inst Mech Eng H 2023:9544119231172862. [PMID: 37139889 DOI: 10.1177/09544119231172862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a 3D asymmetric lifting motion is predicted by using a hybrid predictive model to prevent potential musculoskeletal lower back injuries for asymmetric lifting tasks. The hybrid model has two modules: a skeletal module and an OpenSim musculoskeletal module. The skeletal module consists of a dynamic joint strength based 40 degrees of freedom spatial skeletal model. The skeletal module can predict the lifting motion, ground reaction forces (GRFs), and center of pressure (COP) trajectory using an inverse dynamics-based motion optimization method. The musculoskeletal module consists of a 324-muscle-actuated full-body lumbar spine model. Based on the predicted kinematics, GRFs and COP data from the skeletal module, the musculoskeletal module estimates muscle activations using static optimization and joint reaction forces through the joint reaction analysis tool in OpenSim. The predicted asymmetric motion and GRFs are validated with experimental data. Muscle activation results between the simulated and experimental EMG are also compared to validate the model. Finally, the shear and compression spine loads are compared to NIOSH recommended limits. The differences between asymmetric and symmetric liftings are also compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiang Xiang
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Rahid Zaman
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Asif Arefeen
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Joel Quarnstrom
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Ritwik Rakshit
- Human-Centric Design Research Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - James Yang
- Human-Centric Design Research Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
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18
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Mo F, Meng Q, Wu K, Zhang Q, Li K, Liao Z, Zhao H. A neuromuscular human body model for lumbar injury risk analysis in a vibration loading environment. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2023; 232:107442. [PMID: 36905749 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2023.107442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Long-term intensive exposure to whole-body vibration substantially increases the risk of low back pain and degenerative diseases in special occupational groups, like motor vehicle drivers, military vehicle occupants, aircraft pilots, etc. This study aims to establish and validate a neuromuscular human body model focusing on improvement of the detailed description of anatomic structures and neural reflex control, for lumbar injury analysis in vibration loading environments. METHODS A whole-body musculoskeletal in Opensim codes was first improved by including a detailed anatomic description of spinal ligaments, non-linear intervertebral disc, and lumbar facet joints, and coupling a proprioceptive feedback closed-loop control strategy with GTOs and muscle spindles modeling in Python codes. Then, the established neuromuscular model was multi-levelly validated from sub-segments to the whole model, from regular movements to dynamic responses to vibration loadings. Finally, the neuromuscular model was combined with a dynamic model of an armored vehicle to analyze occupant lumbar injury risk in vibration loadings due to different road conditions and traveling velocities. RESULT Based on a series of biomechanical indexes, including lumbar joint rotation angles, the lumbar intervertebral pressures, the displacement of the lumbar segments, and the lumbar muscle activities, the validation results show that the present neuromuscular model is available and feasible in predicting lumbar biomechanical responses in normal daily movement and vibration loading environments. Furthermore, the combined analysis with the armored vehicle model predicted similar lumbar injury risk to the experimental or epidemiologic studies. The preliminary analysis results also showed that road types and travelling velocities have substantial combined effects on lumbar muscle activities, and indicated that intervertebral joint pressure and muscle activity indexes can need to be jointly considered for lumbar injury risk evaluation. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the established neuromuscular model is an effective tool to evaluate vibration loading effects on injury risk of the human body and assist vehicle design vibration comfort by directly concerning the human body injury itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuhao Mo
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Design and Manufacture for Vehicle Body, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Qingnan Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Design and Manufacture for Vehicle Body, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Ke Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Design and Manufacture for Vehicle Body, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Advanced Design and Manufacture for Vehicle Body, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Kui Li
- Institute for Traffic Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Zhikang Liao
- Institute for Traffic Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Hui Zhao
- Institute for Traffic Medicine, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China.
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19
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Recent Advances in Coupled MBS and FEM Models of the Spine—A Review. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10030315. [PMID: 36978705 PMCID: PMC10045105 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10030315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
How back pain is related to intervertebral disc degeneration, spinal loading or sports-related overuse remains an unanswered question of biomechanics. Coupled MBS and FEM simulations can provide a holistic view of the spine by considering both the overall kinematics and kinetics of the spine and the inner stress distribution of flexible components. We reviewed studies that included MBS and FEM co-simulations of the spine. Thereby, we classified the studies into unidirectional and bidirectional co-simulation, according to their data exchange methods. Several studies have demonstrated that using unidirectional co-simulation models provides useful insights into spinal biomechanics, although synchronizing the two distinct models remains a key challenge, often requiring extensive manual intervention. The use of a bidirectional co-simulation features an iterative, automated process with a constant data exchange between integrated subsystems. It reduces manual corrections of vertebra positions or reaction forces and enables detailed modeling of dynamic load cases. Bidirectional co-simulations are thus a promising new research approach for improved spine modeling, as a main challenge in spinal biomechanics is the nonlinear deformation of the intervertebral discs. Future studies will likely include the automated implementation of patient-specific bidirectional co-simulation models using hyper- or poroelastic intervertebral disc FEM models and muscle forces examined by an optimization algorithm in MBS. Applications range from clinical diagnosis to biomechanical analysis of overload situations in sports and injury prediction.
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20
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Lerchl T, Nispel K, Baum T, Bodden J, Senner V, Kirschke JS. Multibody Models of the Thoracolumbar Spine: A Review on Applications, Limitations, and Challenges. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10020202. [PMID: 36829696 PMCID: PMC9952620 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10020202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Numerical models of the musculoskeletal system as investigative tools are an integral part of biomechanical and clinical research. While finite element modeling is primarily suitable for the examination of deformation states and internal stresses in flexible bodies, multibody modeling is based on the assumption of rigid bodies, that are connected via joints and flexible elements. This simplification allows the consideration of biomechanical systems from a holistic perspective and thus takes into account multiple influencing factors of mechanical loads. Being the source of major health issues worldwide, the human spine is subject to a variety of studies using these models to investigate and understand healthy and pathological biomechanics of the upper body. In this review, we summarize the current state-of-the-art literature on multibody models of the thoracolumbar spine and identify limitations and challenges related to current modeling approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Lerchl
- Sport Equipment and Sport Materials, School of Engineering and Design, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-89-289-15365
| | - Kati Nispel
- Sport Equipment and Sport Materials, School of Engineering and Design, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Baum
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Jannis Bodden
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Veit Senner
- Sport Equipment and Sport Materials, School of Engineering and Design, Technical University of Munich, 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Jan S. Kirschke
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, School of Medicine, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
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Lumbar spinal loads and lumbar muscle forces evaluation with various lumbar supports and backrest inclination angles in driving posture. EUROPEAN SPINE JOURNAL : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE EUROPEAN SPINE SOCIETY, THE EUROPEAN SPINAL DEFORMITY SOCIETY, AND THE EUROPEAN SECTION OF THE CERVICAL SPINE RESEARCH SOCIETY 2023; 32:408-419. [PMID: 36380009 DOI: 10.1007/s00586-022-07446-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The low back pain of professional drivers could be linked to excessive lumbar load. This study aims at developing a musculoskeletal model to study the lumbar spinal loads and lumbar muscle forces of the human body in driving posture, so as to contribute to a better understanding of low back pain and to improve the design of vehicle seats. METHODS A standing musculoskeletal model, including limbs, head and neck, that can reflect several activities of daily living was established based on the Christophy spine model. The model was then validated by comparing the calculated lumbar loads and muscle forces to the experimental data in the previous studies. Referring to radiology studies, the musculoskeletal model was adjusted into different driving postures with several different lumbar supports (0, 2 and 4 cm) and inclinations of the backrest (from 23° to 33°, by 2° intervals). The lumbar biomechanical load with various lumbar supports and backrest inclination angles was calculated. RESULTS The results showed that the overall lumbar spinal load and lumbar muscle force with 4 cm lumbar support were reduced by 11.30 and 26.24%. The lumbar spinal loads and lumbar muscle forces increased first and then decreased with the increase in backrest inclination angles from 23° to 33°. The lumbar biomechanical load varied slightly with the backrest inclination angles from 29° to 33°. CONCLUSIONS There are two findings: (i) the lumbar spinal loads at the L3-L4, L4-L5 and L5-S1, and lumbar muscle forces decreased obviously with the 4 cm lumbar support, while the seat cushion inclination angle was set to 10°. (ii) The recommended backrest inclination angles are 29° to 33° with a 10° seat cushion to the horizontal, which can keep a low level of the lumbar spinal loads and lumbar muscle forces. This study could be used to explain the association between drivers' sitting posture and the lumbar load change, and provide a reference for the prevention of low back pain.
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Bilateral upper extremity trunk model for cross-country sit-skiing double poling propulsion: model development and validation. Med Biol Eng Comput 2023; 61:445-455. [PMID: 36472762 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-022-02724-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The subacromial impingement syndrome is a high-incidence injury for cross-country sit-skiing skier, which is often accompanied by muscle imbalance. However, at present, no musculoskeletal model has been identified for this sport. Thus, this research aimed to establish a bilateral upper extremity trunk (BUET) musculoskeletal model suitable for cross-country sit-skiing based on OpenSim software and verify the function of the model. By splicing three existing OpenSim models, an upper limb model with 17 segments, 35 degrees of freedom, and 472 musculotendon actuators was established. The clavicle and scapula were modeled as individual bodies and then connected to the torso through a three-degrees-of-freedom rotational joint and to the clavicle through a weld joint, respectively. The five lumbar vertebrae were established separately and coupled into a three-degree-of-freedom joint. Kinematics, kinetic, and EMG signal data of five 15-s maximal effort interval tests were obtained by using seven cameras, ergometers, and surface EMG synchronous collection. Based on the resulting rotator cuff muscle geometry of the model, simulated muscle activation patterns were comparable to experimental data, and muscle-driven ability was proven. The model will be available online ( https://simtk.org/projects/bit ) for researchers to study the muscle activation of shoulder joint movement.
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23
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A Statistical Parametric Mapping Analysis Approach for the Evaluation of a Passive Back Support Exoskeleton on Mechanical Loading During a Simulated Patient Transfer Task. J Appl Biomech 2023; 39:22-33. [PMID: 36649717 DOI: 10.1123/jab.2022-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study assessed the effectiveness of a passive back support exoskeleton during a mechanical loading task. Fifteen healthy participants performed a simulated patient transfer task while wearing the Laevo (version 2.5) passive back support exoskeleton. Collected metrics encompassed L5-S1 joint moments, back and abdominal muscle activity, lower body and back kinematics, center of mass displacement, and movement smoothness. A statistical parametric mapping analysis approach was used to overcome limitations from discretization of continuous data. The exoskeleton reduced L5-S1 joint moments during trunk flexion, but wearing the device restricted L5-S1 joint flexion when flexing the trunk as well as hip and knee extension, preventing participants from standing fully upright. Moreover, wearing the device limited center of mass motion in the caudal direction and increased its motion in the anterior direction. Therefore, wearing the exoskeleton partly reduced lower back moments during the lowering phase of the patient transfer task, but there were some undesired effects such as altered joint kinematics and center of mass displacement. Statistical parametric mapping analysis was useful in determining the benefits and hindrances produced by wearing the exoskeleton while performing the simulated patient transfer task and should be utilized in further studies to inform design and appropriate usage.
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24
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Meszaros-Beller L, Hammer M, Riede JM, Pivonka P, Little JP, Schmitt S. Effects of geometric individualisation of a human spine model on load sharing: neuro-musculoskeletal simulation reveals significant differences in ligament and muscle contribution. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2023; 22:669-694. [PMID: 36602716 PMCID: PMC10097810 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-022-01673-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
In spine research, two possibilities to generate models exist: generic (population-based) models representing the average human and subject-specific representations of individuals. Despite the increasing interest in subject specificity, individualisation of spine models remains challenging. Neuro-musculoskeletal (NMS) models enable the analysis and prediction of dynamic motions by incorporating active muscles attaching to bones that are connected using articulating joints under the assumption of rigid body dynamics. In this study, we used forward-dynamic simulations to compare a generic NMS multibody model of the thoracolumbar spine including fully articulated vertebrae, detailed musculature, passive ligaments and linear intervertebral disc (IVD) models with an individualised model to assess the contribution of individual biological structures. Individualisation was achieved by integrating skeletal geometry from computed tomography and custom-selected muscle and ligament paths. Both models underwent a gravitational settling process and a forward flexion-to-extension movement. The model-specific load distribution in an equilibrated upright position and local stiffness in the L4/5 functional spinal unit (FSU) is compared. Load sharing between occurring internal forces generated by individual biological structures and their contribution to the FSU stiffness was computed. The main finding of our simulations is an apparent shift in load sharing with individualisation from an equally distributed element contribution of IVD, ligaments and muscles in the generic spine model to a predominant muscle contribution in the individualised model depending on the analysed spine level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Meszaros-Beller
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Maria Hammer
- Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.,Stuttgart Center for Simulation Science (SC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Julia M Riede
- Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Peter Pivonka
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - J Paige Little
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Syn Schmitt
- School of Mechanical, Medical and Process Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia. .,Institute for Modelling and Simulation of Biomechanical Systems, University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany. .,Stuttgart Center for Simulation Science (SC SimTech), University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart, Germany.
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25
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Stott B, Afshari P, Bischoff J, Clin J, Francois-Saint-Cyr A, Goodin M, Herrmann S, Liu X, Driscoll M. A Critical Comparison of Comparators Used to Demonstrate Credibility of Physics-Based Numerical Spine Models. Ann Biomed Eng 2023; 51:150-162. [PMID: 36088433 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-03069-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The ability of new medical devices and technology to demonstrate safety and effectiveness, and consequently acquire regulatory approval, has been dependent on benchtop, in vitro, and in vivo evidence and experimentation. Regulatory agencies have recently begun accepting computational models and simulations as credible evidence for virtual clinical trials and medical device development. However, it is crucial that any computational model undergo rigorous verification and validation activities to attain credibility for its context of use before it can be accepted for regulatory submission. Several recently published numerical models of the human spine were considered for their implementation of various comparators as a means of model validation. The comparators used in each published model were examined and classified as either an engineering or natural comparator. Further, a method of scoring the comparators was developed based on guidelines from ASME V&V40 and the draft guidance from the US FDA, and used to evaluate the pertinence of each comparator in model validation. Thus, this review article aimed to score the various comparators used to validate numerical models of the spine in order to examine the comparator's ability to lend credibility towards computational models of the spine for specific contexts of use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany Stott
- Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Research Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 0C3, Canada.,Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Research Institute MUHC, Montreal General Hospital, Montreal, QC, H3G 1A4, Canada
| | - Payman Afshari
- DePuy Synthes Spine, Johnson and Johnson, Raynham, MA, 02767, USA
| | - Jeff Bischoff
- Zimmer Biomet, Corporate Research, Warsaw, IN, 46581-0708, USA
| | - Julien Clin
- Numalogics, Inc., Montreal, QC, H2V 1A2, Canada
| | | | - Mark Goodin
- SimuTech Group, Inc., Hudson, OH, 44236, USA
| | - Sven Herrmann
- CADFEM Medical GmbH, 85567, Grafing bei München, Germany
| | - Xiangui Liu
- Stryker Orthopaedics, Mahwah, NJ, 07430, USA
| | - Mark Driscoll
- Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Research Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3A 0C3, Canada. .,Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Research Institute MUHC, Montreal General Hospital, Montreal, QC, H3G 1A4, Canada.
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26
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Yu C. ANALYSIS OF JOGGING ON MUSCLE FATIGUE AND BODY BALANCE. REV BRAS MED ESPORTE 2023. [DOI: 10.1590/1517-8692202329012022_0746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Introduction: The changes in muscle condition during jogging are studied according to their characteristics to formulate a correct fitness plan. With a medium effort intensity, studies on jogging have shown positive effects on mental de-stress and motor coordination. Objective: Study the effect of running training on muscle fatigue and body balance. Methods: A total of 60 sedentary freshmen from a university were selected, including 30 male and 30 female students. The volunteers were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. While the control performed routine sports activities according to the teaching plan during physical education class, the students in the experimental group performed a jogging training protocol. Data were collected before and after the intervention for comparison and statistical analysis. Results: The vestibular step test changed from 20.56 to 13.87, evidencing that jogging training significantly improved body balance ability in addition to providing body flexibility. Conclusion: Combined with curriculum standards and the level of physical training required, jogging can be integrated into physical education classes to promote student health. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.
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27
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Sánchez-Manchola M, Arciniegas-Mayag L, Múnera M, Bourgain M, Provot T, Cifuentes CA. Effects of stance control via hidden Markov model-based gait phase detection on healthy users of an active hip-knee exoskeleton. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1021525. [PMID: 37101752 PMCID: PMC10123285 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1021525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In the past years, robotic lower-limb exoskeletons have become a powerful tool to help clinicians improve the rehabilitation process of patients who have suffered from neurological disorders, such as stroke, by applying intensive and repetitive training. However, active subject participation is considered to be an important feature to promote neuroplasticity during gait training. To this end, the present study presents the performance assessment of the AGoRA exoskeleton, a stance-controlled wearable device designed to assist overground walking by unilaterally actuating the knee and hip joints. Methods: The exoskeleton's control approach relies on an admittance controller, that varies the system impedance according to the gait phase detected through an adaptive method based on a hidden Markov model. This strategy seeks to comply with the assistance-as-needed rationale, i.e., an assistive device should only intervene when the patient is in need by applying Human-Robot interaction (HRI). As a proof of concept of such a control strategy, a pilot study comparing three experimental conditions (i.e., unassisted, transparent mode, and stance control mode) was carried out to evaluate the exoskeleton's short-term effects on the overground gait pattern of healthy subjects. Gait spatiotemporal parameters and lower-limb kinematics were captured using a 3D-motion analysis system Vicon during the walking trials. Results and Discussion: By having found only significant differences between the actuated conditions and the unassisted condition in terms of gait velocity (ρ = 0.048) and knee flexion (ρ ≤ 0.001), the performance of the AGoRA exoskeleton seems to be comparable to those identified in previous studies found in the literature. This outcome also suggests that future efforts should focus on the improvement of the fastening system in pursuit of kinematic compatibility and enhanced compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Sánchez-Manchola
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Colombian School of Engineering Julio Garavito, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Luis Arciniegas-Mayag
- LabTel, Electrical Engineering Department at Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Marcela Múnera
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Colombian School of Engineering Julio Garavito, Bogotá, Colombia
- Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Maxime Bourgain
- EPF Graduate School of Engineering, Cachan, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Provot
- EPF Graduate School of Engineering, Cachan, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Paris, France
| | - Carlos A. Cifuentes
- Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
- School of Engineering, Science and Technology, Universidad Del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Carlos A. Cifuentes ,
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28
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Biomechanical Analysis of Foot–Ankle Complex during Jogging with Rearfoot Strike versus Forefoot Strike. Appl Bionics Biomech 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/2664856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim. In order to reduce foot and ankle injuries induced by jogging, two-foot strike patterns, rearfoot strike (RFS), and forefoot strike (FFS), were adopted and compared. First, RFS jogging and FFS jogging were experimentally studied, so as to acquire kinematic and kinetic data, including foot strike angle, knee flexion angle, and ground reaction force (GRF). Then, a 3D finite element model of foot–ankle complex was reconstructed from the scanned 2D-stacked images. Biomechanical characteristics, including plantar pressure, stress of metatarsals, midfoot bone, calcaneus and cartilage, and tensile force of plantar fascia and ligaments, were obtained. The results showed that RFS jogging and FFS jogging had a similar change trend and a close peak value of GRF. Since possessing more momentum in the push stage and less momentum in the brake stage, FFS jogging could be in favor of a higher jogging speed. However, FFS jogging produced larger metatarsal stress in the 5th metatarsal and much larger tensile force of plantar fascia, which might cause metatarsal fracture and heel pain. While RFS jogging produced larger plantar pressure in the hindfoot area, larger calcaneus stress, and much larger tarsal navicular stress, which might cause heel tissue injury, calcaneus damage, and stress fracture of naviculocuneiform joint. In addition, talocrural and talocalcaneal joint cartilage could bear jogging loads, as the peak contact pressure were both small in RFS jogging and FFS jogging. Therefore, jogging with rearfoot or FFS pattern should be chosen according to the health condition of foot–ankle parts.
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29
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Li G, Ao D, Vega MM, Shourijeh MS, Zandiyeh P, Chang SH, Lewis VO, Dunbar NJ, Babazadeh-Naseri A, Baines AJ, Fregly BJ. A computational method for estimating trunk muscle activations during gait using lower extremity muscle synergies. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:964359. [PMID: 36582837 PMCID: PMC9792665 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.964359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the surgical treatments for pelvic sarcoma is the restoration of hip function with a custom pelvic prosthesis after cancerous tumor removal. The orthopedic oncologist and orthopedic implant company must make numerous often subjective decisions regarding the design of the pelvic surgery and custom pelvic prosthesis. Using personalized musculoskeletal computer models to predict post-surgery walking function and custom pelvic prosthesis loading is an emerging method for making surgical and custom prosthesis design decisions in a more objective manner. Such predictions would necessitate the estimation of forces generated by muscles spanning the lower trunk and all joints of the lower extremities. However, estimating trunk and leg muscle forces simultaneously during walking based on electromyography (EMG) data remains challenging due to the limited number of EMG channels typically used for measurement of leg muscle activity. This study developed a computational method for estimating unmeasured trunk muscle activations during walking using lower extremity muscle synergies. To facilitate the calibration of an EMG-driven model and the estimation of leg muscle activations, EMG data were collected from each leg. Using non-negative matrix factorization, muscle synergies were extracted from activations of leg muscles. On the basis of previous studies, it was hypothesized that the time-varying synergy activations were shared between the trunk and leg muscles. The synergy weights required to reconstruct the trunk muscle activations were determined through optimization. The accuracy of the synergy-based method was dependent on the number of synergies and optimization formulation. With seven synergies and an increased level of activation minimization, the estimated activations of the erector spinae were strongly correlated with their measured activity. This study created a custom full-body model by combining two existing musculoskeletal models. The model was further modified and heavily personalized to represent various aspects of the pelvic sarcoma patient, all of which contributed to the estimation of trunk muscle activations. This proposed method can facilitate the prediction of post-surgery walking function and pelvic prosthesis loading, as well as provide objective evaluations for surgical and prosthesis design decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng Li
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Di Ao
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Marleny M. Vega
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Mohammad S. Shourijeh
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Payam Zandiyeh
- Biomotion Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Shuo-Hsiu Chang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, United States,Neurorecovery Research Center, TIRR Memorial Hermann, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Valerae O. Lewis
- Department of Orthopaedic Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Nicholas J. Dunbar
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Ata Babazadeh-Naseri
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Andrew J. Baines
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Benjamin J. Fregly
- Rice Computational Neuromechanics Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Rice University, Houston, TX, United States,*Correspondence: Benjamin J. Fregly,
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Knapik GG, Mendel E, Bourekas E, Marras WS. Computational lumbar spine models: A literature review. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon) 2022; 100:105816. [PMID: 36435080 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2022.105816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Computational spine models of various types have been employed to understand spine function, assess the risk that different activities pose to the spine, and evaluate techniques to prevent injury. The areas in which these models are applied has expanded greatly, potentially beyond the appropriate scope of each, given their capabilities. A comprehensive understanding of the components of these models provides insight into their current capabilities and limitations. METHODS The objective of this review was to provide a critical assessment of the different characteristics of model elements employed across the spectrum of lumbar spine modeling and in newer combined methodologies to help better evaluate existing studies and delineate areas for future research and refinement. FINDINGS A total of 155 studies met selection criteria and were included in this review. Most current studies use either highly detailed Finite Element models or simpler Musculoskeletal models driven with in vivo data. Many models feature significant geometric or loading simplifications that limit their realism and validity. Frequently, studies only create a single model and thus can't account for the impact of subject variability. The lack of model representation for certain subject cohorts leaves significant gaps in spine knowledge. Combining features from both types of modeling could result in more accurate and predictive models. INTERPRETATION Development of integrated models combining elements from different model types in a framework that enables the evaluation of larger populations of subjects could address existing voids and enable more realistic representation of the biomechanics of the lumbar spine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory G Knapik
- Spine Research Institute, The Ohio State University, 210 Baker Systems, 1971 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Ehud Mendel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Eric Bourekas
- Department of Radiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - William S Marras
- Spine Research Institute, The Ohio State University, 210 Baker Systems, 1971 Neil Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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31
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Eyssartier C, Billard P, Robert M, Thoreux P, Sauret C. Which typical floor movements of men's artistic gymnastics result in the most extreme lumbar lordosis and ground reaction forces? Sports Biomech 2022:1-16. [PMID: 36377511 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2022.2140702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Back pain is prevalent among gymnast populations and extreme flexion or extension of the lumbar spine along with high ground reaction forces (GRFs) are known to increase intervertebral stress. The aim of this study was to determine which postures and dynamic conditions among common floor movements provide the greatest risk of injury in men's artistic gymnastics (MAG). For this purpose, lumbar spine curvatures, obtained through a full-body subject-specific kinematic model fed by motion capture data, and GRFs on feet and hands were compared between typical floor movements of MAG (pike jump, round off back handspring, front handspring, forward and backward tucked somersaults) performed by six adolescent gymnasts. The round off back handspring and the pike jump resulted respectively in the largest lumbar extension and flexion, and the forward tucked somersault take-off in the highest GRF. At ground impacts, the largest lumbar flexion was during the backward tucked somersault landing and only the back handspring hands ground contact phase led to lumbar extension. Such identification of high-risk conditions should enable better back pain management in gymnastics through more tailored training adaptations, particularly in case of pathologies or musculoskeletal specificities.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Eyssartier
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, IBHGC-Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, Paris, France
- Fédération Française de Gymnastique, Paris, France
| | - P Billard
- Fédération Française de Gymnastique, Paris, France
| | - M Robert
- Fédération Française de Gymnastique, Paris, France
| | - P Thoreux
- Hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, AP-HP, Paris, France
- Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, IBHGC-Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, Paris, France
| | - C Sauret
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, IBHGC-Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, HESAM Université, Paris, France
- Centre d'Etudes et de Recherche sur l'Appareillage des Handicapés, Institution Nationale des Invalides, France
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32
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Kardash K, Koutras C, Otaduy MA. Design of personalized scoliosis braces based on differentiable biomechanics—Synthetic study. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1014365. [DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1014365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
This work describes a computational methodology for the design of braces for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. The proposed methodology relies on a personalized simulation model of the patient’s trunk, and automatically searches for the brace geometry that optimizes the trade-off between clinical improvement and patient comfort. To do this, we introduce a formulation of differentiable biomechanics of the patient’s trunk, the brace, and their interaction. We design a simulation model that is differentiable with respect to both the deformation state and the brace design parameters, and we show how this differentiable model is used for the efficient update of brace design parameters within a numerical optimization algorithm. To evaluate the proposed methodology, we have obtained trunk models with personalized geometry for five patients of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis, and we have designed Boston-type braces. In a simulation setting, the designed braces improve clinical metrics by 45% on average, under acceptable comfort conditions. In the future, the methodology can be extended beyond synthetic validation, and tested with physical braces on the actual patients.
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33
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Dehaghani MR, Nourani A, Arjmand N. Effects of auxetic shoe on lumbar spine kinematics and kinetics during gait and drop vertical jump by a combined in vivo and modeling investigation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18326. [PMID: 36316350 PMCID: PMC9622817 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21540-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study examined the effects of auxetic shoes on the biomechanics of the spine, as compared to barefoot and conventional shoe conditions, during gait and drop vertical jump (DVJ) activities using a combined in vivo and musculoskeletal modeling approach. Motion and force-plate data as well as electromyographic (EMG) activities of select trunk muscles of 11 individuals were collected during foregoing activities. In DVJ activity, two main phases of first landing (FL) and second landing (SL) were studied. In the FL phase of DVJ noticeable alternations were observed when auxetic shoes were used. That is, compared to the conventional footwear condition, smaller EMG activities in extensor muscles (by ~ 16-29%, p < 0.001), smaller anterior-posterior (AP) distance between the center of pressure of ground reaction force and heel (by ~ 19%, p = 0.002), generally larger maximal hip, knee, and ankle flexion angles (p < 0.005) and finally smaller maximal L5-S1 compression force and maximal external moment (by ~ 12 and 8%, respectively, p < 0.001) were obtained by wearing auxetic shoes. Our results, therefore, indicate that using auxetic shoes can reduce load on the lumbar spine during high-demanding activities such as vertical jump and thus may decrease the musculoskeletal risk of injuries during these activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Rahmani Dehaghani
- grid.412553.40000 0001 0740 9747Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, 11155-9567 Iran
| | - Amir Nourani
- grid.412553.40000 0001 0740 9747Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, 11155-9567 Iran
| | - N. Arjmand
- grid.412553.40000 0001 0740 9747Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, 11155-9567 Iran
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Exploring lumbo-pelvic functional behaviour patterns during osteopathic motion tests: A biomechanical (en)active inference approach to movement analysis. INT J OSTEOPATH MED 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijosm.2022.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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35
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Banks JJ, Umberger BR, Caldwell GE. EMG optimization in OpenSim: A model for estimating lower back kinetics in gait. Med Eng Phys 2022; 103:103790. [PMID: 35500997 DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2022.103790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Participant-specific musculoskeletal models are needed to accurately estimate lower back internal kinetic demands and injury risk. In this study we developed the framework for incorporating an electromyography optimization (EMGopt) approach within OpenSim (https://simtk.org/projects/emg_opt_tool) and evaluated lower back demands estimated from the model during gait. Kinematic, external kinetic, and EMG data were recorded from six participants as they performed walking and carrying tasks on a treadmill. For evaluation, predicted lumbar vertebral joint forces were compared to those from a generic static optimization approach (SOpt) and to previous studies. Further, model-estimated muscle activations were compared to recorded EMG, and model sensitivity to day-to-day EMG variability was evaluated. Results showed the vertebral joint forces from the model were qualitatively similar in pattern and magnitude to literature reports. Compared to SOpt, the EMGopt approach predicted larger joint loads (p<.01) with muscle activations better matching individual participant EMG patterns. L5/S1 vertebral joint forces from EMGopt were sensitive to the expected variability of recorded EMG, but the magnitude of these differences (±4%) did not impact between-task comparisons. Despite limitations inherent to such models, the proposed musculoskeletal model and EMGopt approach appears well-suited for evaluating internal lower back demands during gait tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob J Banks
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Kinesiology, 110 Totman Building, 30 Eastman Lane, Amherst, MA 01003, United States; Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, 330 Brookline Avenue, RN 115, Boston, MA 02215, United States; Harvard Medical School, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston, MA 02115, United States.
| | - Brian R Umberger
- University of Michigan, School of Kinesiology, 830 North University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States.
| | - Graham E Caldwell
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Department of Kinesiology, 110 Totman Building, 30 Eastman Lane, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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Sun D, Song Y, Cen X, Wang M, Baker JS, Gu Y. Workflow assessing the effect of Achilles tendon rupture on gait function and metatarsal stress: Combined musculoskeletal modeling and finite element analysis. Proc Inst Mech Eng H 2022; 236:676-685. [PMID: 35311405 DOI: 10.1177/09544119221085795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Achilles tendon rupture (ATR) incidence has increased among badminton players in recent years. The foot internal stress was hard to obtain through experimental testing. The purpose of the current research is to develop a methodology that could improve the finite element model derived foot internal stress prediction for ATR clinical and rehabilitation applications. A subject-specific musculoskeletal model was combined with a 3D finite element model to predict the metatarsal stress. The 80% point during the push-off phase of walking was selected for the comparing between injured and uninjured sides. The surgical repaired Achilles tendon (AT) after 12 months was elongated by 5.5% than the uninjured tendon. At 80% point of stance phase, the ankle plantarflexion angle and AT force decreased by 39.6% and 21.9% on the injured side, respectively. The foot inversion degree increased by 22.9% and was accompanied by the redistribution of metatarsals von Mises stress. The stresses on the fourth and fifth metatarsals were increased by 59.5% and 85.9% on the injured side. The workflow is available to assess musculoskeletal disorders and obtain foot internal stress after ATR. The decreased ankle plantar flexor force may be affected by triceps surae muscle atrophy and weakened force transmission ability of elongated AT. The increased von Mises stress on fourth and fifth metatarsals accompanied by higher foot inversion may increase the ankle lateral sprain injury risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Sun
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yang Song
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Doctoral School on Safety and Security Sciences, Obuda University, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Engineering, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Xuanzhen Cen
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Doctoral School on Safety and Security Sciences, Obuda University, Budapest, Hungary.,Faculty of Engineering, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Meizi Wang
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,Doctoral School on Safety and Security Sciences, Obuda University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Julien Steven Baker
- Centre for Health and Exercise Science Research, Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yaodong Gu
- Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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Zaman R, Xiang Y, Rakshit R, Yang J. Hybrid Predictive Model for Lifting by Integrating Skeletal Motion Prediction with an OpenSim Musculoskeletal Model. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2021; 69:1111-1122. [PMID: 34550877 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2021.3114374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, a novel hybrid predictive musculoskeletal model is proposed which has both motion prediction and muscular dynamics assessment capabilities. METHODS First, a two-dimensional (2D) skeletal model with 10 degrees of freedom is used to predict a symmetric lifting motion, outputting joint angle profiles, ground reaction forces (GRFs), and center of pressure (COP). These intermediate outputs are input to the scaled musculoskeletal model in OpenSim for muscle activation and joint reaction load analysis. Finally, the experimental validation is carried out. RESULTS Static Optimization tool is used to estimate the muscle activation data in OpenSim for the predicted lifting motion. Joint reaction forces of the lumbosacral joint (L5-S1) are generated using the OpenSim Joint Reaction analysis tool. The predicted joint angles, muscle activations, and peak joint reaction forces are compared with experimental data and data from literature to validate the hybrid model. CONCLUSION The proposed hybrid model combines the skeletal models rapid motion prediction with OpenSims complex muscular dynamics assessment, and it can serve as a new generic tool for motion prediction and injury analysis in ergonomics and biomechanics.
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Yun SS, Kim K, Ahn J, Cho KJ. Body-powered variable impedance: An approach to augmenting humans with a passive device by reshaping lifting posture. Sci Robot 2021; 6:6/57/eabe1243. [PMID: 34433655 DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.abe1243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The movement patterns appropriate for exercise and manual labor do not always correspond to what people instinctively choose for better comfort. Without expert guidance, people can even increase the risk of injury by choosing a comfortable posture rather than the appropriate one, notably when lifting objects. Even in situations where squatting is accepted as a desirable lifting strategy, people tend to choose the more comfortable strategy of stooping or semisquatting. The common approach to correcting lifting posture, immobilizing vulnerable joints via fixation, is insufficient for preventing back injuries sustained from repetitive lifting. Instead, when lifting small but heavy objects, the entire kinetic chain should cooperate to achieve a series of squat-lifting patterns. Inspired by the observation that force fields affect the coordination of voluntary human motion, we devised a passive exosuit embedded with a body-powered variable-impedance mechanism. The exosuit adds impedance to the human joints according to how far the wearer's movement is from the squat-lifting trajectories so that it hinders stooping but facilitates squatting. In an experiment that entailed lifting a small 10-kg box, 10 first-time users changed their voluntary lifting motion closer to squatting on average. Simulation results based on recorded kinematic and kinetic data showed that this postural change reduced the compression force, shear force, and moment on the lumbosacral joint. Our work demonstrates the potential of using an exosuit to help people move in a desirable manner without requiring a complicated, bulky mechanical system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Sik Yun
- Soft Robotics Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Institute of Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Keewon Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jooeun Ahn
- Soft Robotics Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Physical Education, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Sport Science, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu-Jin Cho
- Soft Robotics Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Institute of Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Koutras C, Pérez J, Kardash K, Otaduy MA. A study of the sensitivity of biomechanical models of the spine for scoliosis brace design. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2021; 207:106125. [PMID: 34020374 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2021.106125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The development of biomechanical models of the torso and the spine opens the door to computational solutions for the design of braces for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis. However, the design of such biomechanical models faces several unknowns, such as the correct identification of relevant mechanical elements, or the required accuracy of model parameters. The objective of this study was to design a methodology for the identification of the aforementioned elements, with the purpose of creating personalized models suited for patient-specific brace design and the definition of parameter estimation criteria. METHODS We have developed a comprehensive model of the torso, including spine, ribcage and soft tissue, and we have developed computational tools for the analysis of the model parameters. With these tools, we perform an analysis of the model under typical loading conditions of scoliosis braces. RESULTS We present a complete sensitivity analysis of the models mechanical parameters and a comparison between a reference healthy subject and a subject suffering from scoliosis. Furthermore, we make a direct connection between error bounds on the deformation and tolerances for parameter estimation, which can guide the personalization of the model. CONCLUSIONS Not surprisingly, the stiffness parameters that govern the lateral deformation of the spine in the frontal plane are some of the most relevant parameters, and require careful modeling. More surprisingly, their relevance is on par with the correct parameterization of the soft tissue of the torso. For scoliosis patients, but not for healthy subjects, we observe that the axial rotation of the spine also requires careful modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesús Pérez
- Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, 28933, Spain.
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Favier CD, Finnegan ME, Quest RA, Honeyfield L, McGregor AH, Phillips ATM. An open-source musculoskeletal model of the lumbar spine and lower limbs: a validation for movements of the lumbar spine. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2021; 24:1310-1325. [PMID: 33641546 DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2021.1886284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal models of the lumbar spine have been developed with varying levels of detail for a wide range of clinical applications. Providing consistency is ensured throughout the modelling approach, these models can be combined with other computational models and be used in predictive modelling studies to investigate bone health deterioration and the associated fracture risk. To provide precise physiological loading conditions for such predictive modelling studies, a new full-body musculoskeletal model including a detailed and consistent representation of the lower limbs and the lumbar spine was developed. The model was assessed against in vivo measurements from the literature for a range of spine movements representative of daily living activities. Comparison between model estimations and electromyography recordings was also made for a range of lifting tasks. This new musculoskeletal model will provide a comprehensive physiological mechanical environment for future predictive finite element modelling studies on bone structural adaptation. It is freely available on https://simtk.org/projects/llsm/.
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Affiliation(s)
- C D Favier
- Structural Biomechanics in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - M E Finnegan
- Department of Imaging, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - R A Quest
- Department of Imaging, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - L Honeyfield
- Department of Imaging, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - A H McGregor
- Musculoskeletal Lab in the Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - A T M Phillips
- Structural Biomechanics in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Sturdy JT, Sessoms PH, Silverman AK. A backpack load sharing model to evaluate lumbar and hip joint contact forces during shoulder borne and hip belt assisted load carriage. APPLIED ERGONOMICS 2021; 90:103277. [PMID: 33011587 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2020.103277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Musculoskeletal injuries of the lumbar spine occur frequently among military service members and are associated with heavy backpack loads. Musculoskeletal modeling and simulation facilitate biomechanical evaluation to compare different backpack designs. We developed a backpack attachment model that can be tuned to represent various load distributions between the torso and pelvis. We generated walking simulations to estimate muscle and joint contact forces of unloaded walking and while carrying 38 kg using shoulder-borne backpacks and hip belt-assisted backpacks for six U.S. Marines. Three-dimensional peak and average lumbar (L4-L5) and hip joint contact forces over the stance phase were compared between each load condition. Axial L4-L5 and axial and anterior hip joint contact forces were greater during both backpack conditions compared to the unloaded condition. Joint contact forces were similar between backpack conditions. Future studies incorporating additional participants, walking conditions, and backpack load distributions are suggested for further model development and backpack design evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan T Sturdy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, 80401, USA
| | - Pinata H Sessoms
- Warfighter Performance, Naval Health Research Center, San Diego, CA, 92106, USA
| | - Anne K Silverman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO, 80401, USA.
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Glover NA, Kakar RS, Chaudhari AMW. Effects of spinal coupling and marker set on tracking of spine models during running. J Biomech 2020; 116:110217. [PMID: 33422724 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite the wide-spread use of musculoskeletal simulations and its use in estimating spinal loads, much is not known about how to best collect experimental data for modelling purposes. The primary purposes in this study were to determine the effects of tracking of running motion capture data to a model (1) with and without coupling of lumbar spine segments, and (2) with varying combinations of spinal markers. Running trials were collected from 7 participants, with each at three different speeds. The motion data was fit to the Full-Body Lumbar Spine Model (FBLS) with coupling of the lumbar spine enabled (CS) and disabled and therefore rigid (RS) in OpenSim through the Inverse Kinematics tool (IK). Different combinations of markers were chosen as tracking inputs for IK to represent experimental data collection with different marker sets. Root-mean-square (RMS) marker errors of all 13 markers along the spine for each gait cycle were calculated. The CS model resulted in 23.7% lower errors than the RS model (p < 0.001). The marker subset analysis showed that increasing the number of markers in the experimental data collection decreases the error, with the four marker tracking subsets with the highest number of markers tracked having the lowest errors. The location of the marker and timing in the gait cycle did not affect marker error. When spinal mechanics are of interest, the inclusion of a coupled lumbar spine in the model and a larger spinal marker set help better track experimental kinematics when fitting to a model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson A Glover
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States.
| | - Rumit S Kakar
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Ajit M W Chaudhari
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; Division of Physical Therapy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States; Sports Medicine Research Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
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Development of a multiscale model of the human lumbar spine for investigation of tissue loads in people with and without a transtibial amputation during sit-to-stand. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2020; 20:339-358. [PMID: 33026565 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-020-01389-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Quantification of lumbar spine load transfer is important for understanding low back pain, especially among persons with a lower limb amputation. Computational modeling provides a helpful solution for obtaining estimates of in vivo loads. A multiscale model was constructed by combining musculoskeletal and finite element (FE) models of the lumbar spine to determine tissue loading during daily activities. Three-dimensional kinematic and ground reaction force data were collected from participants with ([Formula: see text]) and without ([Formula: see text]) a unilateral transtibial amputation (TTA) during 5 sit-to-stand trials. We estimated tissue-level load transfer from the multiscale model by controlling the FE model with intervertebral kinematics and muscle forces predicted by the musculoskeletal model. Annulus fibrosis stress, intradiscal pressure (IDP), and facet contact forces were calculated using the FE model. Differences in whole-body kinematics, muscle forces, and tissue-level loads were found between participant groups. Notably, participants with TTA had greater axial rotation toward their intact limb ([Formula: see text]), greater abdominal muscle activity ([Formula: see text]), and greater overall tissue loading throughout sit-to-stand ([Formula: see text]) compared to able-bodied participants. Both normalized (to upright standing) and absolute estimates of L4-L5 IDP were close to in vivo values reported in the literature. The multiscale model can be used to estimate the distribution of loads within different lumbar spine tissue structures and can be adapted for use with different activities, populations, and spinal geometries.
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44
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Burkhart K, Grindle D, Bouxsein ML, Anderson DE. Between-session reliability of subject-specific musculoskeletal models of the spine derived from optoelectronic motion capture data. J Biomech 2020; 112:110044. [PMID: 32977297 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the between-session reliability of creating subject-specific musculoskeletal models with optoelectronic motion capture data, and using them to estimate spine loading. Nineteen healthy participants aged 24-74 years underwent the same set of measurements on two separate occasions. Retroreflective markers were placed on anatomical regions, including C7, T1, T4, T5, T8, T9, T12 and L1 spinous processes, pelvis, upper and lower limbs, and head. We created full-body musculoskeletal models with detailed thoracolumbar spines, and scaled these to create subject-specific models for each individual and each session. Models were scaled from distances between markers, and spine curvature was adjusted according to marker-estimated measurements. Using these models, we estimated vertebral compressive loading for five different standardized postures: neutral standing, 45˚ trunk flexion, 15˚ trunk extension, 20˚ lateral bend to the right, and 45˚ axial rotation to the right. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and standard error of measurement were calculated as measures of between-session reliability and measurement error, respectively. Spine curvature measures showed excellent reliability (ICC = 0.79-0.91) and body scaling segments showed fair to excellent reliability (ICC = 0.46-0.95). We found that musculoskeletal models showed mostly excellent between-session reliability to estimate spine loading, with 91% of ICC values > 0.75 for all activities. This information is a necessary precursor for using motion capture data to estimate spine loading from subject-specific musculoskeletal models, and suggests that marker data will deliver reproducible subject-specific models and estimates of spine loading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn Burkhart
- Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge 02139, MA, United States; Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Boston 02215, MA, United States; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, MA, United States
| | - Daniel Grindle
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Boston 02215, MA, United States; Division of Engineering Mechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Mary L Bouxsein
- Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology Program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge 02139, MA, United States; Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Boston 02215, MA, United States; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, MA, United States
| | - Dennis E Anderson
- Center for Advanced Orthopaedic Studies, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Boston 02215, MA, United States; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston 02115, MA, United States.
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Roelker SA, Caruthers EJ, Hall RK, Pelz NC, Chaudhari AMW, Siston RA. Effects of Optimization Technique on Simulated Muscle Activations and Forces. J Appl Biomech 2020; 36:259-278. [PMID: 32663800 DOI: 10.1123/jab.2018-0332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Two optimization techniques, static optimization (SO) and computed muscle control (CMC), are often used in OpenSim to estimate the muscle activations and forces responsible for movement. Although differences between SO and CMC muscle function have been reported, the accuracy of each technique and the combined effect of optimization and model choice on simulated muscle function is unclear. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively compare the SO and CMC estimates of muscle activations and forces during gait with the experimental data in the Gait2392 and Full Body Running models. In OpenSim (version 3.1), muscle function during gait was estimated using SO and CMC in 6 subjects in each model and validated against experimental muscle activations and joint torques. Experimental and simulated activation agreement was sensitive to optimization technique for the soleus and tibialis anterior. Knee extension torque error was greater with CMC than SO. Muscle forces, activations, and co-contraction indices tended to be higher with CMC and more sensitive to model choice. CMC's inclusion of passive muscle forces, muscle activation-contraction dynamics, and a proportional-derivative controller to track kinematics contributes to these differences. Model and optimization technique choices should be validated using experimental activations collected simultaneously with the data used to generate the simulation.
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46
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Bini R, Hume P. Reproducibility of lower limb motion and forces during stationary submaximal pedalling using wearable motion tracking sensors. Sports Biomech 2020:1-22. [PMID: 32623961 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2020.1776760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In order to address gaps in the literature, this study assessed the reproducibility (i.e., difference between and within sessions) of joint and muscle forces using wearable sensors during stationary cycling. Seventeen male cyclists performed two sessions on a cycle ergometer cycling at a combination of three power outputs (1.5, 2.5 and 3.5 W/kg) and three pedalling cadences (60, 80 and 100 rpm) in two sessions (2-7 days apart). The first trial from each session was repeated at the end of the session for assessment of within-session reproducibility. Three-dimensional (3D) full-body motion and 3D bilateral pedal forces were collected using an inertial motion tracking system and a pair of instrumented pedals, respectively. Joint angles, muscle forces and knee joint forces were computed using OpenSim. Poor to excellent agreement (ICCs = 0.31-0.99) was observed and differences were trivial to small and non-significant between trials within-session. Poor to excellent agreement (ICCs = 0.05-0.97) was observed and differences were trivial to large between sessions. Variability can be attributed to changes in muscle recruitment strategies (within and between-sessions) and to repositioning of sensors (between-sessions).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Bini
- La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University, Bendigo, Australia.,Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Patria Hume
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand
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Abstract
Learning to maintain postural balance while standing requires a significant, fine coordination effort between the neuromuscular system and the sensory system. It is one of the key contributing factors towards fall prevention, especially in the older population. Using artificial intelligence (AI), we can similarly teach an agent to maintain a standing posture, and thus teach the agent not to fall. In this paper, we investigate the learning progress of an AI agent and how it maintains a stable standing posture through reinforcement learning. We used the Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient method (DDPG) and the OpenSim musculoskeletal simulation environment based on OpenAI Gym. During training, the AI agent learnt three policies. First, it learnt to maintain the Centre-of-Gravity and Zero-Moment-Point in front of the body. Then, it learnt to shift the load of the entire body on one leg while using the other leg for fine tuning the balancing action. Finally, it started to learn the coordination between the two pre-trained policies. This study shows the potentials of using deep reinforcement learning in human movement studies. The learnt AI behaviour also exhibited attempts to achieve an unplanned goal because it correlated with the set goal (e.g., walking in order to prevent falling). The failed attempts to maintain a standing posture is an interesting by-product which can enrich the fall detection and prevention research efforts.
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Chenaut P, Ménard M, Vaucher P, Lancelot L, Bideau B, Bourgin M. Biomechanical analysis of the lumbar-pelvic-femoral complex during the one-sided tilt test: a pilot study in triathletes. Comput Methods Biomech Biomed Engin 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/10255842.2020.1714921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P. Chenaut
- Institut d’Ostéopathie de Rennes, Bruz, France
| | - M. Ménard
- Institut d’Ostéopathie de Rennes, Bruz, France
- Univ Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - P. Vaucher
- Unit of Research in Mobility & Musculoskeletal Care, School of Health Sciences Fribourg, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO), Delémont, Switzerland
| | - L. Lancelot
- Institut d’Ostéopathie de Rennes, Bruz, France
| | | | - M. Bourgin
- Institut d’Ostéopathie de Rennes, Bruz, France
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Retailleau M, Colloud F. New insights into lumbar flexion tests based on inverse and direct kinematic musculoskeletal modeling. J Biomech 2020; 105:109782. [PMID: 32423539 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Measurement of maximal lumbar flexion is considered to be a crucial element in the assessment of lumbar spine mechanics in situations as diverse as physiotherapy, orthopaedics, ergonomics, sport or aging. However, currently, there is no consensus on a reference test. This study aims to characterise five maximal lumbar flexion tests (four classical tests and a new, specifically-developed test designed to constrain pelvic retroversion) based on a three-dimensional, participant-specific musculoskeletal model. Twenty-six male and female participants performed the five tests. Movements were modelled in OpenSim to estimate change in length in lumbar, hamstring and gluteus muscles, together with lumbar flexion and pelvic tilt. These so-called "inverse" kinematic results were compared using a two-way ANOVA (sex×test). In a second step, lumbar muscle change in length was computed using a direct kinematic method. Lumbar flexion and lumbar muscle change in length were found to be greater when participants were in seated postures, with little pelvic retroversion. Female participants were observed to have less lumbar flexion than male participants (77±14° and 91±12°, respectively). Hip extensor muscles (hamstrings and gluteus) were fully stretched during each of the five tests. Our results highlight the specific roles of hamstrings, gluteus and lumbar muscles into reaching maximal lumbar flexion. Coupling inverse and direct kinematic methods proved to be a useful tool to enhance our knowledge of lumbar tests. Our findings help to characterise the role of the muscles involved in lumbar flexion, and we propose some recommendations for improving and standardising these tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëva Retailleau
- Institut Pprime, CNRS, Université de Poitiers, ISAE-ENSMA, France
| | - Floren Colloud
- Institut Pprime, CNRS, Université de Poitiers, ISAE-ENSMA, France.
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Byrne RM, Aiyangar AK, Zhang X. Sensitivity of musculoskeletal model-based lumbar spinal loading estimates to type of kinematic input and passive stiffness properties. J Biomech 2020; 102:109659. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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