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M. Gföhler:
"Musculoskeletal Modeling & Simulation of Human Movement - Applications in Rehabilitation";
Vortrag: IMEMP Seminar, Cardiff School of Engineering Cardiff University (eingeladen); 12.12.2012.

Musculoskeletal models are commonly used to analyze human movement and to characterize muscle function. Especially in case of musculoskeletal disorders subject-specific models are needed to reproduce the individual structure of the musculoskeletal system. A relatively accurate, non-invasive method to quantify musculoskeletal anatomy in living subjects are computer-generated three-dimensional reconstructions from computed tomography or magnetic resonance images. Movement analysis and computer simulations are used to determine muscle forces and function in human movement, which can serve as input for the development of suitable training methods and assistive devices.
Muscle forces and function during gait in children with cerebral palsy in comparison to normally developing children of the same age group:
Children have different body composition than adults and therefore scaling of generic adult models is not always suitable for investigations on children. We developed subject-specific models of both normally developing children and children with cerebral palsy (CP) and a clinical diagnosis of crouch gait based on magnetic resonance images. An average model of children was derived and musculoskeletal parameters compared to those in children with CP. Gait analysis, static optimization and inverse dynamics were applied to determine muscle forces and analyze muscle function in children with CP in comparison to their age related fellows.
Cycling training by means of Functional Electrical Stimulation:
Leg muscles of paraplegics can be re-activated by Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). We applied musculoskeletal modeling and forward dynamic simulation to determine the optimal stimulation patterns to generate a cycling motion powered by FES of the leg muscles. A specially adapted three-wheeled cycle with enhanced motor control allows paraplegics to do both stationary training and mobile cycling. Activation of the leg muscles has a number of physiological benefits for paraplegics as training of the cardiovascular system and decrease of muscle and bone atrophy.
Development of an assistive arm exoskeleton for activities of daily living:
Patients suffering from a neurodegenerative disease often have problems lifting their arms. Based on inverse dynamic simulations of activities of daily living, design parameters for an arm orthosis with weight support were derived. A lightweight orthosis was developed that provides weight support and is suitable for use with FES of weakened or paralyzed arm muscles if needed. This orthosis is part of the MUNDUS system which is a modular system supposed to provide functional assistance in activities of daily living for patients with a neurodegenerative disease in a home environment.

human movement, simulation, rehabilitation