The Neuromusculoskeletal Modeling Pipeline: MATLAB-based Model Personalization and Treatment Optimization...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Computational Biomechanics
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Neuromusculoskeletal injuries impact millions, with current treatments yielding suboptimal results.
• Personalized computational models are needed to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice for these conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce the Neuromusculoskeletal Modeling (NMSM) Pipeline, a software toolset for personalized neuromusculoskeletal modeling and treatment optimization.
• Facilitate the computational design of individualized treatments for patients with neuromusculoskeletal impairments.

Main Methods:

• The NMSM Pipeline includes toolsets for personalizing joint, muscle-tendon, neural control, and foot-ground contact models.
• Treatment optimization uses personalized models and optimal control methods to predict and enhance functional outcomes.
• A case study involved a post-stroke individual to predict neural control modifications for improved walking.

Main Results:

• The NMSM Pipeline successfully personalized a neuromusculoskeletal model using experimental data.
• Predictive simulations indicated a potential 60% increase in walking speed without augmenting metabolic cost for the post-stroke subject.
• The results demonstrate the potential for personalized treatment design to maximize functional recovery.

Conclusions:

• The NMSM Pipeline enables the creation of personalized neuromusculoskeletal models for predictive simulations.
• This approach supports collaborative efforts between researchers and clinicians to design effective, individualized treatments.
• The NMSM Pipeline has the potential to significantly improve functional outcomes for individuals with neuromusculoskeletal disorders.