The Role of the Muscles in Minimising Tibial Stress During Running
Lead Research Organisation:
UNIVERSITY OF EXETER
Department Name: Sport and Health Sciences
Abstract
This is an interdisciplinary project exploring the role that muscles play in minimising bone stress during running. Running is a very popular form of physical activity, with many health benefits, but is associated with a high injury occurrence. Stress fractures of the tibia (shin bone) are one of the more burdensome running injuries.
The curved geometry of the tibia means that it undergoes mechanical bending, and experiences high stresses during running. The muscles which cross the tibia can act to minimise these stresses. This important interaction between the muscles and bones requires further exploration.
This research will use an interdisciplinary approach, combining human movement biomechanics with mathematical modelling and finite element analysis techniques to estimate tibial stress, non-invasively. The aim of the research is firstly to develop and evaluate a three-dimensional model of the tibia, which will then be simulated to identify factors which influence bone stress during running. Secondly, the model will be used to identify and test interventions to minimise tibial stress amongst runners.
The PhD student assigned to the project will collect motion capture data and magnetic resonance images from human participants, and will use mathematical and engineering techniques to develop and simulate a three-dimensional model of the tibia. This research would suit a student with a strong background in engineering or mathematics, with an interest in its application to human populations.
The curved geometry of the tibia means that it undergoes mechanical bending, and experiences high stresses during running. The muscles which cross the tibia can act to minimise these stresses. This important interaction between the muscles and bones requires further exploration.
This research will use an interdisciplinary approach, combining human movement biomechanics with mathematical modelling and finite element analysis techniques to estimate tibial stress, non-invasively. The aim of the research is firstly to develop and evaluate a three-dimensional model of the tibia, which will then be simulated to identify factors which influence bone stress during running. Secondly, the model will be used to identify and test interventions to minimise tibial stress amongst runners.
The PhD student assigned to the project will collect motion capture data and magnetic resonance images from human participants, and will use mathematical and engineering techniques to develop and simulate a three-dimensional model of the tibia. This research would suit a student with a strong background in engineering or mathematics, with an interest in its application to human populations.
Organisations
People |
ORCID iD |
| Hannah Rice (Primary Supervisor) | |
| Megan Kenny (Student) |
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP/R513210/1 | 01/10/2018 | 30/09/2023 | |||
| 2072036 | Studentship | EP/R513210/1 | 01/10/2018 | 30/09/2022 | Megan Kenny |