In vivo measurement of 3D load transfer mechanism in the lower extremity

为了研究下肢的三维（3D）载荷传递机制，使用三维关节模型和校准的x射线系统捕获的关节运动图像评估了胫骨股骨关节和髌骨股骨关节的关节接触行为和髌骨肌腱的变形。随着膝关节屈曲角度的改变，接触区域的位置也随之改变。当膝关节屈曲至60°时，髌腱的相对伸长率增加。超过60°后，肌腱外侧部分的伸长率下降。施加在胫股关节和髌股关节上的力的方向和振幅也随膝关节的不同而变化。

In order to investigate the 3-dimensional (3D) load transfer mechanism in thelower extremity, articular contact behavior at the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints and deformationof the patellar tendon were evaluated in vivo using 3D joint models and images of joint motion capturedby calibrated x-ray systems. As the flexion angle of the knee changed, the location of the contact areaalso altered. The relative elongation of the patellar tendon increased as the knee flexed up to 60°. Beyond 60°, the elongation in the lateral portion of the tendon decreased. The direction and theamplitude of the force applied across the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints also varied with the kneemotion.