A Subject-Specific Dynamics Model for Predicting Impact Force in Elderly Lateral Fall

Abstract

In the reported research, a subject-specific multibody dynamics model was proposed to predict impact force induced in lateral fall of the elderly. Parameters such as anthropometric dimensions, segment masses, mass center, and mass moment of inertia that are required for constructing the dynamics model were extracted or calculated from a whole body DXA image of the subject. Governing equations of the fall process were established and computer codes were developed for solving the equations. The dynamics model was then validated by a controlled fall test using young volunteer. Good agreements between predicted and experimental results were observed, indicating that the proposed dynamics model has the capability to predict subject-specific impact force induced in fall.