A Computational Method For Simulation Of Trunk Motion: Towards A Theoretical Based Quantitative Assessment Of Trunk Performance

Abstract

Quantitative assessment of trunk muscle performance is important in documenting the extent of impairment and disability due to low back disorders (LBD). The statistical pattern recognition problem of classifying LBD patients and normal subjects based on dynamic trunk performance has been data driven. To provide clinical insight for interpretation of the distinctive features in the movement profiles, we have suggested an optimization-based approach for simulation of dynamic point-to-point sagittal trunk movement. The effect of strength impairment on movement patterns was simulated based on minimizing different physical cost functions: Energy, Jerk, Peak Torque, Impulse, and Work. During unconstrained simulations, uni-modal velocity patterns are predicted???, while time to peak velocity is distinct for each cost function. The significant differences between unimpaired optimal movement profiles were diminished by imposing an 80% reduction in extensor muscle strength. The results indicate ..