A direct dynamic approach to stress development in bone

This research provides a method for relating neural controls and musculotendon dynamics to the development of stress in skeletal elements in the lower extremities. Gait simulations are carried out by implementing a seven-link, eight degree of freedom model of the human body that is controlled by various muscle groups on each leg. Hill-type models of muscles are utilized with activation and contraction dynamics controlled by neural inputs. This direct-dynamic approach provides a predictive and analytical method for determining exact muscle forces exerted by each musculotendon throughout the gait cycle as well joint torques and reaction forces. These forces are utilized as the boundary inputs in a stress analysis of the skeletal elements. By this approach stress and strain computed by a finite element analysis are related to musculoskeletal dynamics and neuromuscular control.