Effect of individual spinal muscle activities on upright posture using a human body finite element model.

ABSTRACT: The occurrence of diseases characterized by irregular spinal alignment, such as kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis, and dropped head syndrome (DHS) is increasing, particularly among older adults. DHS is characterized by an excessive forward tilt of the head and neck, causing the head to droop. Although it is believed that muscle activity plays a role in both the onset and treatment of DHS, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. To elucidate the mechanism, we used a human body finite element model, which included the erector spinae muscle group, and a muscle controller with fixed legs for spinal posture stabilization. The model replicated muscle activation levels during the maintenance of an upright posture under gravity, similar to those obtained from experimental data. Parametric simulation

SUBMITTER: Nakahira Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11772595 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature