Development of a Child-Specific Musculoskeletal Model of the Foot and Ankle

Understanding the causes of gait abnormalities in children with cerebral palsy is imperative in determining the appropriate treatment or surgical procedure. Musculoskeletal models (MSMs), computer simulations of the musculoskeletal system consisting of bone and muscle geometry as well as various muscle parameters, have provided insight into the underlying reasons for specific gait abnormalities. Until recently, these MSMs have been adult models. Since many muscle and gait abnormalities are diagnosed and treated in children, the need for child-specific MSMs must be investigated

Development of a Pediatric Musculoskeletal Model of the Foot and Ankle

Previously created adult musculoskeletal models (MSMs) have provided insight into the underlying causes of specific gait abnormalities. Since these abnormalities are often diagnosed and treated in children with cerebral palsy, child-specific MSMs are needed. In this study, a child-specific MSM of the foot and ankle was created from existing magnetic resonance images (MRIs) of a child with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and equinovarus disorder. The bony contours of both limbs were digitized and converted into three-dimensional surface meshes. These meshes were used to create the MSM