Detailed spine modeling with LifeMOD™

Abstract

Patients sitting in a wheelchair may spend hours in a relatively fixed position, with their lower back forced away from its natural lordotic curvature. This prolonged sitting was reported to be linked with low back problems. The aim of this study was to develop a design system that can simulate the kinematic behavior of musculoskeletal forms and generate a human-wheelchair interface to provide accurate means of designing effective seating solutions for wheelchair users preventing long-term spinal deformities. This virtual simulation platform aims to aid clinicians in their analysis to ensure higher degree of accuracy and consistency in the prescriptions. LifeMOD™ was used as the base simulation software package to build a detailed spine multi-body model. The presented model can be applied to understand the complex spine biomechanics and clinically important analysis such as contact forces between each vertebra and wheelchair model, load acting on the intervertebral disc joints, corresponding angles between vertebrae in the seated position and tension in the spine muscles. These results aid clinicians to develop mechanical design of back support, such as placing conventional pillows and towels at appropriate positions which can be an effective and convenient alternative to expensive special seating. © ACM 2009.