[Finite element analysis of Wu's bone-setting manipulation for thoracolumbar compression fractures]

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of Wu's bone-setting manipulation compared with other techniques for treating simple thoracolumbar compression fractures (type A1) using finite element analysis, and to investigate its therapeutic validity.

A finite element model of a type A1 thoracolumbar compression fracture was established based on the AO classification. Four mechanical loading scenarios were simulated:simple hyperextension position;simple pressing;hyperextension combined with pressing;Wu's bone-setting manipulation. Stress distribution and displacement of the surrounding tissues were observed and analyzed.

Under Wu's bone-setting manipulation, the overall stress was 66.20 MPa with a total displacement of 2.32 mm. Specifically, at the L₁ fractured vertebra, the stress reached 33.00 MPa and displacement was 1.70 mm, outperforming the other three scenarios. In the supine position, the capsular ligaments served as crucial fulcrums for reduction. Under the Wu's bone-setting manipulation load, the primary force-bearing structures were the supraspinous ligament and the anterior longitudinal ligament within the sagittal plane around the vertebra.

The Wu's bone-setting manipulation concentrates mechanical stress more effectively on the fractured vertebra and induces significantly greater displacement, thereby achieving superior clinical outcomes for type A1 thoracolumbar compression fractures.