Phantom-based lumbar spine experimental investigation and validation of a multibody model

The study of the biomechanics of the human spine is not yet developed extensively. Recent developments in this field have heightened the need for observing the spine from a comprehensive perspective to understand the complex biomechanical patterns, which underlie the kinematic and dynamic responses of this multiple-joint column. Within this frame of exigence, a joint study embracing experimental tests and multibody modelling was designed. This study provides novel insights to the segmental contribution profiles in flexion and extension, analysing different forms of sagittal-plane angles. Moreover, the validation of the multibody model contributes to defining the key aspects for a consistent spine modelling as well as it introduces the basis for simulating pathological conditions and post-orthopaedic surgical outcomes.