Sensitivity of Thoracolumbar Spine Musculoskeletal Model Loading in Neutral Standing and Forward Flexion Static Postures to Thoracic Disc Stiffness.

This study aimed to quantify the sensitivity of a thoracolumbar musculoskeletal model with a flexible thoracic spine and articulated ribcage to disc flexural stiffness variation inherent from in-vitro cadaveric data. The model was personalized to a normal weight subject, whose upper body segmental masses and centers of mass were computed using a body-shape-based approach. Joint flexural stiffness curves were defined based on in-vitro flexion-extension moment-rotation data from several specimens taken at various thoracic levels, with stiffness variation reaching 1.

Effect of Anthropometry on Plantar Pressure Distribution during Gait in Overweight Male Subjects.

Traditionally, research on plantar pressure in overweight/obese populations has predominantly focused on dividing the plantar surface into two or three regions, considering factors such as body mass index (BMI), age, and gender. This study took a more comprehensive approach, incorporating various anthropometric measurements representing body shape, including arm, leg, and shoulder lengths, as well as thigh, chest, waist, hip, and ankle circumferences. Utilizing retrospective data from overweight but healthy male subjects, the study yielded results revealing robust correlations with Euclidean measurements, circumferential measurements, and circumferential ratios.

Musculoskeletal model predictions sensitivity to upper body mass scaling during gait.

Musculoskeletal modeling based on inverse dynamics provides a cost-effective non-invasive means for calculating intersegmental joint reaction forces and moments, solely relying on kinematic data, easily obtained from smart wearables. On the other hand, the accuracy and precision of such models strongly hinge upon the selected scaling methodology tailored to subject-specific data. This study investigates the impact of upper body mass distribution on internal and external kinetics computed using a comprehensive musculoskeletal model during level walking in both normal weight and obese individuals.