A biomechanical model for concomitant functioning of neck and shoulder: a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Computational modeling

Background:

• Neck and shoulder pain present a significant healthcare burden with substantial socioeconomic impact.
• Current treatments for these conditions are often ineffective, diminishing patient quality of life.
• Understanding the link between cervical spine pathology and shoulder issues is vital for improved therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an open-source biomechanical model for the coupled function of the neck and shoulder.
• To numerically analyze neck and shoulder muscle engagement during combined head and arm motions.

Main Methods:

• Construction of a novel biomechanical model simulating concomitant neck and shoulder biomechanics.
• Numerical investigation of muscle function during simulated head and arm movements.

Main Results:

• A functional biomechanical model for integrated neck and shoulder movement was successfully created.
• The model allows for the numerical assessment of muscle work during complex head and arm actions.

Conclusions:

• The developed biomechanical model offers a new tool for researching neck and shoulder pathologies.
• This model can help elucidate the biomechanics of combined neck and shoulder movements, informing future treatment development.