Basics of Biomechanics

Question 1

What is Biomechanics?

Answer 1

the study of living things using mechanical science

Question 2

What are some example of Biomechanics in clinical assessments?

Answer 2

Gait Analysis (for neurological conditions)
Orthopaedic Biomechanics (how engineers design implants)
3D motion Capture Systems (Vicon/Qualysis used for precision movement analysis during rehab)

Question 3

Why is biomechanics important?

Answer 3

To improve performance ( how subjects can manipulate their bodies to maximise performance)
To prevent and treat injury (understanding loading and properties of tissue)
Can be combined with mathematical models and provide quantitative or qualitative data

Question 4

What are the names and directions of the three anatomical planes?

Answer 4

Frontal/ Coronal - cutting the body in half leaving the front and back
Sagittal - cutting the body in half leaving the left and the right.
Transverse - cutting the body in half leaving the top and bottom.

Question 5

What are the adjectives associated with each of the planes?

Answer 5

Frontal - Anterior (toward the front) and posterior (toward the back)
Sagittal - medial (toward the midline) and lateral (away from the midline)
Transverse - superior/cranial (toward the head) and inferior/ caudal (toward the feet)

Question 6

What are the major mechanical principles of biomechanics?

Answer 6

Balance
Inertia
Coordination continuum
Range of motion
Segmental interaction
Force – Motion
Force – Time
Optimal projection
Spin

Question 7

What are the time relationships with fluid reactions and solid reactions ?

Answer 7

Fluid reactions are time dependent ( called flow) and Solid reactions are usually time independent.

Question 8

What are viscoelastic materials and can you give an example ?

Answer 8

Materials are viscoelastic when they show both fluid and solid behaviours. Metals at high temperatures or hydrogels are examples.