Biomechanical Analysis of Lower Limb in Bharatanatyam Dance Using Musculoskeletal Modeling

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Dance Science
• Kinesiology

Background:

• Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance, features demanding lower limb movements.
• This study biomechanically analyzes the Paichal adavu and its variations in Bharatanatyam.

Purpose of the Study:

• To biomechanically evaluate three variations of the Bharatanatyam Paichal adavu.
• To understand joint forces and muscle demands in classical Indian dance movements.

Main Methods:

• 3D motion capture and musculoskeletal modeling were employed.
• A trained dancer performed Simple Paichal (SP), Paichal Variation (PV), and Paichal Mandi (PM).
• Kinematics, joint forces, and muscle activations/forces were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Paichal Mandi (PM) showed the highest knee joint (16 BW) and muscle forces (10 BW).
• Paichal Variation (PV) exhibited peak hip flexion (112.4°) and ankle dorsiflexion (-33°).
• Simple Paichal (SP) had the lowest loads but showed bursts in rectus femoris and tensor fasciae latae (TFL).

Conclusions:

• PM demands significant stabilization, while PV involves high mobility and dynamic loading.
• Biomechanical data can inform safer Bharatanatyam techniques and injury prevention strategies.