A Three-Dimensional Motion Model of Loads on the Lumbar Spine: II. Model Validation

Abstract

A three-dimensional motion model has been developed that estimates loads on the lumbar spine under laboratory conditions that simulate manual materials handling conditions. Eleven subjects experienced spinal loading during an experiment in which conditions of trunk velocity, trunk torque output, and trunk asymmetric posture were varied in a series of isokinetic velocity trunk extensions. The electromyographic activity of 10 trunk muscles, subject anthropometry, and trunk kinetics were used as input to a biomechanical simulation model described in Part I of this study. The model calculated estimates of compression, shear, and torsion loading in the lumbar spine, as well as the torque production of the trunk, continuously throughout the exertion. Trunk torque estimates derived from this model were compared with measured trunk torque. The effects of trunk motion, posture, and torque level on spine loading as estimated by the model are discussed. It was concluded that this approach provides a straightforward means of assessing loading of the spine attributable to laboratory simulations of workplace conditions.