This research project is developing a detailed dynamic musculoskeletal model of the neck which will further facilitate the understanding of mechanisms associated with catastrophic neck injury and whiplash. The static response of this model is being validated with respect to in vivo torque and muscle EMG data. The dynamic response of this model is also being validated with respect to in vivo kinematic, kinetic and muscle EMG data. Finally, load sharing between the muscles and ligamentous cervical spine under both static and dynamic conditions is being quantified. . Ultimately, Dynamic Optimization Theory will be used to calculate the pattern of neck muscle activity for the model which will be verified by comparing the simulation results with in vivo muscle EMG data. |
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