Knee joint biomechanics and cartilage damage prediction during landing: A hybrid MD-FE-musculoskeletal modeling

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287479
• Publication Date: 2023-08-03T17:31:29Z
• Authors: Malek Adouni; Fadi Alkhatib; Afif Gouissem; Tanvir R. Faisal
• Keywords: Biomechanics

Understanding the mechanics behind knee joint injuries and providing appropriate treatment is crucial for improving physical function, quality of life, employability. In this study, we used a hybrid molecular dynamics-finite element-musculoskeletal model to determine level loads can withstand when landing from different heights (20, 40, 60 cm), including height at which cartilage damage occurs. The was driven by kinematics–kinetics data asymptomatic subjects peak loading instance drop landing. Our analysis revealed that as increased, forces on also particularly in vastus muscles medial gastrocnemius. patellar tendon experienced more stress than other ligaments, plateau supported most tibial contact stresses. load mostly transmitted through cartilage-cartilage interaction increased with height. critical 126 cm, initiated, determined extrapolating collected using an iterative approach. Damage initiation propagation were mainly located superficial layers tibiofemoral patellofemoral cartilage. Finally, study provides valuable insights into mechanisms landing-associated could help limit improve training programs.