Dynamic simulation of the leg in torsion

This paper analytically investigates the dynamic response of the leg in torsion with application to snow ski injuries. A biomechanical model of the leg system is developed and injury mechanisms to the ankle, knee and tibia are presented. The objective is to determine how torsional leg system dynamics influence injuries to the ankle, knee and tibia under impulse loading. The results of the study indicate that ankle, knee and tibial injuries exhibit identical dynamic behavior which is characteristic of a single degree-of-freedom system. In addition, analysis of the injury response to flexible vs rigid thigh tissue shows that the above results are not especially sensitive to flesh effects. Finally, a release decision algorithm for implementation in actively controlled ski bindings is presented.