Abstract
Muscle architecture is an important component to typical musculoskeletal models. Previous studies of human muscle architecture have focused on a single joint, two adjacent joints, or an entire limb. To date, no study has presented muscle architecture for the upper and lower limbs of a single cadaver. Additionally, muscle architectural parameters from elderly cadavers are lacking, making it difficult to accurately model elderly populations. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to present muscle architecture of the upper and lower limbs of a 104 year old female cadaver. The major muscles of the upper and lower limbs were removed and the musculotendon mass, tendon mass, musculotendon length, tendon length, pennation angle, optimal fascicle length, physiological cross-sectional area, and tendon cross-sectional area were determined for each muscle. Data from this complete cadaver are presented in table format. The data from this study can be used to construct a musculoskeletal model of a specific individual who was ambulatory, something which has not been possible to date. This should increase the accuracy of the model output as the model will be representing a specific individual, not a synthesis of measurements from multiple individuals. Additionally, an elderly individual can be modeled which will provide insight into muscle function as we age.
Highlights
One of the first models of muscles that accounted for muscle architecture was developed by Niels Stensen in 1667 [1]
Numerous authors have used this form and function relationship to describe the function of muscles [3,4,5]
Given the connection between a muscle’s form and its function the importance of obtaining muscle architectural measures is central in the understanding of muscle function and in the construction of musculoskeletal models for use in clinical areas such as rehabilitation and surgery
Summary
One of the first models of muscles that accounted for muscle architecture was developed by Niels Stensen in 1667 [1]. Numerous authors have used this form and function relationship to describe the function of muscles [3,4,5]. Using this form/ function relationship, many musculoskeletal models seek to estimate a muscle’s function based on its architecture [6]. Based on the estimated muscle function, these musculoskeletal models have been proposed to guide tendon transfer and other musculoskeletal surgeries [7]. Given the connection between a muscle’s form and its function the importance of obtaining muscle architectural measures is central in the understanding of muscle function and in the construction of musculoskeletal models for use in clinical areas such as rehabilitation and surgery
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