Inferring muscle functional roles of the ostrich pelvic limb during walking and running using computer optimization.

ABSTRACT: Owing to their cursorial background, ostriches (Struthio camelus) walk and run with high metabolic economy, can reach very fast running speeds and quickly execute cutting manoeuvres. These capabilities are believed to be a result of their ability to coordinate muscles to take advantage of specialized passive limb structures. This study aimed to infer the functional roles of ostrich pelvic limb muscles during gait. Existing gait data were combined with a newly developed musculoskeletal model to generate simulations of ostrich walking and running that predict muscle excitations, force and mechanical work. Consistent with previous avian electromyography studies, predicted excitation patterns showed that individual muscles tended to be excited primarily during only stance or swing. Work and fo

SUBMITTER: Rankin JW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4892259 | biostudies-literature | 2016 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature