Using a stiffness-based mechanical spring model for the ribcage, spine and sternum, we have developed a new biomechanical model capable of estimating forces applied to thoracic and lumbar vertebral bodies during activities of daily living.. This model builds on currently available biomechanical models of the spine, and represents an important step toward accurately predicting spinal forces at thoracic vertebral levels, and thereby understanding biomechanical contributions to vertebral fractures and back pain.
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