Effects of nucleus pulposus location on spinal loads and joint centers of rotation and reaction during forward flexion: A combined finite element and Musculoskeletal study

摘要

The mechanical environment of the intervertebral disc and spinal loads are intimately associated with low back pain (LBP) caused by mechanical load. The cause and effect relationship between postures and pain has been therapeutically investigated and widely used to guide patient care. Shift of the nucleus pulposus (NP) inside the intervertebral disc when the spine changes posture in the sagittal plane, known also as NP migration, has been observed and quantified in in-vivo studies. However, the effects of this phenomenon on biomechanics of the disc and the surrounding spinal structures has not been investigated.