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A Muscle-Driven Lumbar Spine Model for Predicting Vibration-Induced Spinal Loads with Adaptive Control
Jiahao Zhou1,2, Chaojie Fan1, Yingli Li1
1School of Traffic & Transportation Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, 410075, China.
Annals of Biomedical Engineering
|February 25, 2026
Summary
This study developed a muscle-driven spine model to better understand how whole-body vibration (WBV) causes low back pain. The model reveals a trade-off between reducing vibration and increasing spinal loads, crucial for preventing injuries.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Occupational Health
- Spinal Load Analysis
Background:
- Whole-body vibration (WBV) exposure is a significant cause of low back pain.
- Existing computational models lack fidelity in predicting dynamic spinal loads due to simplified assumptions.
- Understanding the biomechanical mechanisms linking WBV to spinal loads is crucial for developing effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a muscle-driven lumbar spine model.
- To integrate nonlinear mechanical properties of intervertebral joints and adaptive feedback control.
- To accurately predict dynamic spinal loads under WBV exposure.
Main Methods:
- A hybrid inverse-forward dynamics framework was employed.
- An adaptive proportional-integral-derivative (PID) control algorithm dynamically allocated muscle excitations.
- The model was validated against in vivo intradiscal pressure and electromyography data.
Main Results:
- The model demonstrated good agreement with in vivo data (r > 0.9).
- Active muscle control altered resonance frequencies and reduced vibration transmissibility.
- A trade-off was identified: reduced transmissibility increased lumbar compressive loads at resonance.
Conclusions:
- This validated framework enhances the evaluation of vibration-induced spinal biomechanics.
- It provides insights into injury pathways associated with WBV exposure.
- The findings can inform the development of targeted ergonomic interventions.
