A Comprehensive Methodology to Visualize Articulations for the Physiological Human

Abstract

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) account for the largest fraction of temporary and permanent disabilities. Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common MSDs which is characterized by a degeneration of articular cartilages. Understanding and preventing OA are of paramount importance in our aging yet very active society, and in this context, computer-assisted models of articulations are highly demanded by biomechanical and medical communities. To investigate the causes of some idiopathic OA, we have devised a unique comprehensive methodology to simulate musculoskeletal models of human articulations. Built from a rich variety of acquisition modalities (MRI, Motion capture, Body scanning, etc.) and innovative research, these models are fully subject-specific and account for anatomy, motion and biomechanical behavior of the articulations. This paper presents a complete overview of the methodology with medical validation and clinical case studies.