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Musculoskeletal Simulations

are powerful tools for examining how humans move.

Medical Imaging

enables quantitative study of muscle and joint movement.

Integration of Experiments & Computer Simulations

enhances our understanding of musculoskeletal disorders, such as osteoarthritis.

Predictive Biomechanical Simulations

could inform patient-specific diagnostics and prognostics in the future.

Lab Overview

Biomechanics uses mechanical principles to study biological structures and their functions. In the Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Lab, we study how the structure of bones, joints, and muscles affect human movement. We are particularly interested in understanding how musculoskeletal disorders (osteoarthritis, muscular dystrophy, fracture, joint pain, etc.) influence how humans move and interact with their environment. According to the U.S. Bone & Joint Initiative, nearly 127 million Americans (about 1 in 2 adults) are currently living with at least one musculoskeletal disorder.

Dr. Jennifer A. Nichols, the director of the Musculoskeletal Biomechanics Lab, and her team are creating predictive, biomechanical simulations in order to improve the functional ability and quality of life for individuals with musculoskeletal disorders. Predictive simulations utilize computer models to replicate how the musculoskeletal system responds to pathologies and treatments. In the future, predictive simulations could be a critical component of medical care by aiding patient-specific diagnostics and prognostics. For example, a predictive simulation could describe to what extent a given surgery or physical therapy program would support injury recovery and prevention.

To enhance our understanding of musculoskeletal disorders and advance development of predictive simulations, we use a variety of experimental and computational methods, including 3D motion analysis, electromyography, machine learning, medical imaging, eye-tracking, ultrasound, musculoskeletal models, and computer simulations. Currently, we are using both experimental and simulation techniques to examine (1) how musculoskeletal disorders and their treatments alter anatomical structures, (2) how alterations in anatomical structure lead to changes in functional abilities, and (3) how functional abilities, such as the ability to walk or grasp objects, can be optimally restored through rehabilitation or surgery. We are also pursuing computationally-intensive projects to streamline how patient-specific musculoskeletal models are built and to create simulations of complex human movements, such as those executed by the wrist/hand and foot/ankle. For us, biomechanics research is

Building Informative Open-source Models, Examining Complex Human Activities, & Navigating Interpretation of Computer Simulations.

Research Themes

Prognostics through Musculoskeletal Simulation

Advance the utility of predictive simulations by designing accurate, reproducible simulations of complex functional abilities, such as the ability to grasp or dress. Relate quantitative data from computer simulations to patient perceptions of quality of life to enhance translational research.

Parameter Estimation to Rapidly Create Patient-Specific Models

Design strategies for estimating parameters from readily available data, such as anthropomorphic measurements or medical images. Robust parameter estimation will empower researchers to create custom models specific to their clinical questions.

Tools to Evaluate the Biomechanics of Complex Joint Systems

Enhance biomechanical methods for evaluating complex joint systems, such as the wrist/hand or foot/ankle. Create experimental and computational tools that can provide new insights and discoveries regarding the elegant, anatomical design of the human body.