Finite Element Analysis of L3-L4 Vertebrae at Various Body Postures Under Osteoporotic Condition

Abstract

The present study gives detailed quantitative information on the biomechanical behavior of osteoporotic vertebra which can be used in the evaluation of osteoporotic bone fracture. A three -dimensional finite element model has been developed and applied for the analysis of the lumbar L3-L4 disc -body unit under various body postures like normal standing, extension, weight lifting, stoop lift and squat lift. The stress and deformation of disc and vertebrae are compared with the corresponding values at 10% and 20% osteoporotic condition. It is observed that for weight lifting, stoop lifting, and squat lift under 20% osteoporotic condition the maximum value of stress obtained is close to compressive strength of the bone. Also noted that fewer than 20% osteoporotic condition the deformation of the disc is increased to 20.08% under weight lifting postures. Therefore,we come to the conclusion that people at old age should avoid risky postures which result in low back pain or lumbar fracture.