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Postural thixotropy at the human hip.

E G Walsh1, G W Wright

  • 1Department of Physiology, Edinburgh University.

Quarterly Journal of Experimental Physiology (Cambridge, England)
|May 1, 1988
PubMed
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This study reveals that leg movement exhibits a history-dependent stiffness, a phenomenon termed postural thixotropy. This effect, linked to muscle properties, persists even in individuals with artificial joints.

Area of Science:

  • Biomechanics
  • Human Physiology
  • Musculoskeletal System

Background:

  • The mechanical properties of the human musculoskeletal system are complex and can exhibit non-linear behaviors.
  • Understanding joint and limb dynamics is crucial for rehabilitation and understanding movement disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the dynamic mechanical properties of the human leg during passive oscillation.
  • To characterize the non-linear behavior and history-dependent compliance of the leg's movement.
  • To explore the potential link between observed phenomena and muscle properties.

Main Methods:

  • Experiments involved subjects lying supine with one leg suspended and allowed to swing freely in the horizontal plane.
  • Sinusoidal torques were applied using a printed motor to assess the system's response.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Acceleration and resonant frequencies were recorded to analyze decrementing swings and system non-linearity.
  • Biasing forces were used to evaluate position-dependent effects on stiffness.

    • Main Results:

    • The leg's movement exhibited decrementing swings lasting over 10 seconds.
    • The system demonstrated non-linearity, with increased resonant frequency (stiffening) under small applied torques.
    • Stiffening was dependent on the level of movement, not a specific joint position.
    • Larger active or passive movements could abolish this stiffening effect.
    • History-dependent compliance, indicative of postural thixotropy, was observed.
    • This phenomenon was present and appeared normal in patients with artificial joints.

    Conclusions:

    • The observed history-dependent compliance suggests postural thixotropy in the leg.
    • The findings indicate that muscle properties are likely the underlying cause of this effect.
    • Postural thixotropy is present and functional even in the presence of artificial joints, suggesting robust underlying physiological mechanisms.