An EMG-assisted modeling approach to assess passive lumbar tissue loading in-vivo during trunk bending

Lower back pain (LBP) is a condition with high prevalence and high cost both in the United States and around the world. The magnitude of mechanical loading on spine is strongly associated with the occurrence of LBP. Previously, to assess spinal loading, biologically assisted biomechanical models were developed to estimate trunk muscle contraction forces. Loadings on lumbar passive tissues are estimated using anatomical models. However, despite the substantial individual variability in lumbar ligament geometry and viscoelastic properties, the existing anatomical models do not account for these differences.
Source: Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology - Category: Neurology Authors: Source Type: research