@inproceedings{DendorferKubowitschSuess, author = {Dendorfer, Sebastian and Kubowitsch, Simone and S{\"u}ß, Franz}, title = {How to determine the effect of working conditions on the human body}, series = {11th International Scientific Conference on Production Engineering DEVELOPMENT AND MODERNIZATION OF PRODUCTION (RIM 2017), Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina}, booktitle = {11th International Scientific Conference on Production Engineering DEVELOPMENT AND MODERNIZATION OF PRODUCTION (RIM 2017), Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina}, abstract = {Work places and conditions strains the human body, both psychologically and biomechanically. In order to analyse working conditions and in the following to improve them, detailed knowledge about the effect of the different stressors on the body is needed. This manuscript discusses methods on how to evaluate biomechanical and mental loading and its effect on the musculoskeletal system. A possible workflow for the analysis is presented.}, subject = {Arbeitsbedingungen}, language = {en} } @article{AurbachSpickaSuessetal., author = {Aurbach, Maximilian and Spicka, Jan and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Evaluation of musculoskeletal modelling parameters of the shoulder complex during humeral abduction above 90°}, series = {Journal of Biomechanics}, volume = {106}, journal = {Journal of Biomechanics}, number = {June}, publisher = {Elsevier}, doi = {10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109817}, abstract = {Based on electromyographic data and force measurements within the shoulder joint, there is an indication that muscle and resulting joint reaction forces keep increasing over an abduction angle of 90°. In inverse dynamics models, no single parameter could be attributed to simulate this force behaviour accordingly. The aim of this work is to implement kinematic, kinetic and muscle model modifications to an existing model of the shoulder (AnyBody™) and assess their single and combined effects during abduction up to 140° humeral elevation. The kinematics and the EMG activity of 10 test subjects were measured during humeral abduction. Six modifications were implemented in the model: alternative wrapping of the virtual deltoid muscle elements, utilization of a three element Hill model, strength scaling, motion capture driven clavicle elevation/protraction, translation of the GH joint in dependency of the acting forces and an alteration of the scapula/clavicle rhythm. From the six modifications, 16 different combinations were considered. Parameter combinations with the Hill model changed the resultant GH joint reaction force and led to an increase in force during abduction of the humerus above 90°. Under the premise of muscle activities and forces within the GH joint rising after 90° of humeral abduction, we propose that the Hill type muscle model is a crucial parameter for accurately modelling the shoulder. Furthermore, the outcome of this study indicates that the Hill model induces the co-contraction of the muscles of the shoulder without the need of an additional stability criterion for an inverse dynamics approach.}, subject = {Schultergelenk}, language = {en} } @article{AurbachŠpičkaSuessetal., author = {Aurbach, Maximilian and Špička, Jan and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Vychytil, J. and Havelkov{\´a}, Leonard and Ryba, T. and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Torus obstacle method as a wrapping approach of the deltoid muscle group for humeral abduction in musculoskeletal simulation}, series = {Journal of Biomechanics}, volume = {109}, journal = {Journal of Biomechanics}, number = {August}, publisher = {Elsevier}, doi = {10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109864}, abstract = {Musculoskeletal models of the shoulder complex are valuable research aids to investigate tears of the supraspinatus and the resulting mechanical impact during abduction of the humerus. One of the major contributors to this motion is the deltoid muscle group and for this, an accurate modeling of the lines of action is indispensable. The aim of this work was to utilize a torus obstacle wrapping approach for the deltoids of an existing shoulder model and assess the feasibility of the approach during humeral abduction. The shoulder model from the AnyBody™ modeling system was used as a platform. The size of the tori is based on a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) approach and several kinematic couplings are implemented to determine the trajectories of the tori during abduction. To assess the model behavior, the moment arms of the virtual muscle elements and the resultant glenohumeral joint reaction force (GHJF) were compared with reference data from the literature during abduction of the humerus in the range 20°-120°. The root mean square error for the anterior, lateral and posterior part between the simulated muscle elements and reference data from the literature was 3.9, 1.7 and 5.8 mm, respectively. The largest deviation occurred on the outer elements of the muscle groups, with 12.6, 10.4 and 20.5 mm, respectively. During abduction, there is no overlapping of the muscle elements and these are in continuous contact with the torus obstacles, thus enabling a continuous force transmission. This results in a rising trend of the resultant GHJF. The torus obstacle approach as a wrapping method for the deltoid muscles provides a guided muscle pathing by simultaneously approximating the curvature of the deltoid muscle. The results from the comparison of the simulated moment arms and the resultant GHJF are in accordance with those in the literature in the range 20°-120° of abduction. Although this study shows the strength of the torus obstacle as a wrapping approach, the method of fitting the tori according to MRI data was not suitable. A cadaver study is recommended to better validate and mathematically describe the torus approach.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{AuerKubowitschKrutschetal., author = {Auer, Simon and Kubowitsch, Simone and Krutsch, Werner and Renkawitz, Tobias and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Effect of mental demand on knee forces in professional youth soccer players}, series = {ISBS Proceedings Archive}, volume = {38}, booktitle = {ISBS Proceedings Archive}, number = {1, Art. 28}, abstract = {Soccer is one of the most popular sports all around the world. It is an injurious type of sport with a focus on lower extremities and high psychological pressure during matches. The stressor is linked with injuries and an increased musculoskeletal loading. This study investigates the influence of cognitive stress on the load profile of the knee joint. Twelve professional youth soccer players performed highly dynamic runs with and without additional cognitive stress. The runs were analysed with a musculoskeletal simulation software. The data analysis shows no difference in knee joint reaction loading under additional mental stress compared to the baseline. Yet running times are significantly lower in the baseline. While there is no increase in the joint loads, the running times indicate an altered movement behaviour when the subjects are exposed to additional mental demand.}, subject = {Kniegelenk}, language = {en} } @article{AuerKurbowitschSuessetal., author = {Auer, Simon and Kurbowitsch, Simone and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Renkawitz, Tobias and Krutsch, Werner and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Mental stress reduces performance and changes musculoskeletal loading in football-related movements}, series = {Science and Medicine in Football}, volume = {5}, journal = {Science and Medicine in Football}, number = {4}, publisher = {Taylor \& Francis}, doi = {10.1080/24733938.2020.1860253}, pages = {323 -- 329}, abstract = {Purpose: Football players have a high risk of leg muscle injuries, especially when exposed to mental stress. Hence, this study investigated the musculoskeletal response of elite youth football players during highly dynamic movements under stress. The hypothesis is that mental stress reduces performance and changes the muscular forces exerted. Materials \& methods: Twelve elite youth football players were subjected to mental stress while performing sports-specific change-of-direction movements. A modified version of the d2 attention test was used as stressor. The kinetics are computed using inverse dynamics. Running times and exerted forces of injury-prone muscles were analysed. Results: The stressor runs were rated more mentally demanding by the players (p = 0.006, rs = 0.37) with unchanged physical demand (p = 0.777, rs = 0.45). This resulted in 10\% longer running times under stress (p < 0.001, d = -1.62). The musculoskeletal analysis revealed higher peak muscle forces under mental stress for some players but not for others. Discussion: The study shows that motion capture combined with musculoskeletal computation is suitable to analyse the effects of stress on athletes in highly dynamic movements. For the first time in football medicine, our data quantifies an association between mental stress with reduced football players' performance and changes in muscle force.}, language = {en} } @article{AuerSuessDendorfer, author = {Auer, Simon and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Using markerless motion capture and musculoskeletal models: An evaluation of joint kinematics}, series = {Technology and Health Care}, journal = {Technology and Health Care}, publisher = {IOS Press}, issn = {0928-7329}, doi = {10.3233/THC-240202}, pages = {1 -- 10}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study presents a comprehensive comparison between a marker-based motion capture system (MMC) and a video-based motion capture system (VMC) in the context of kinematic analysis using musculoskeletal models. OBJECTIVE: Focusing on joint angles, the study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of VMC as a viable alternative for biomechanical research. METHODS: Eighteen healthy subjects performed isolated movements with 17 joint degrees of freedom, and their kinematic data were collected using both an MMC and a VMC setup. The kinematic data were entered into the AnyBody Modelling System, which enables the calculation of joint angles. The mean absolute error (MAE) was calculated to quantify the deviations between the two systems. RESULTS: The results showed good agreement between VMC and MMC at several joint angles. In particular, the shoulder, hip and knee joints showed small deviations in kinematics with MAE values of 4.8∘, 6.8∘ and 3.5∘, respectively. However, the study revealed problems in tracking hand and elbow movements, resulting in higher MAE values of 13.7∘ and 27.7∘. Deviations were also higher for head and thoracic movements. CONCLUSION: Overall, VMC showed promising results for lower body and shoulder kinematics. However, the tracking of the wrist and pelvis still needs to be refined. The research results provide a basis for further investigations that promote the fusion of VMC and musculoskeletal models.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{JungtaeublAurbachMelzneretal., author = {Jungt{\"a}ubl, Dominik and Aurbach, Maximilian and Melzner, Maximilian and Spicka, Jan and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {EMG-Based Validation of Musculoskeletal Models Considering Crosstalk}, series = {International Conference BIOMDLORE, June 28 - 30 2018, Białystok, Poland}, booktitle = {International Conference BIOMDLORE, June 28 - 30 2018, Białystok, Poland}, doi = {10.1109/BIOMDLORE.2018.8467211}, abstract = {BACKGROUND: Validation and verification of multibody musculoskeletal models sEMG is a difficult process because of the reliability of sEMG data and the complex relationship of muscle force and sEMG. OBJECTIVE: This work aims at comparing experimentally recorded and simulated muscle activities considering a numerical model for crosstalk. METHODS: For providing an experimentally derived reference data set, subjects were performing elevations of the arm, where the activities of the contemplated muscle groups were measured by sEMG sensors. Computed muscle activities were further processed and transformed into an artificial electromyographical signal, which includes a numerical crosstalk model. In order to determine whether the crosstalk model provides a better agreement with the measured muscle activities, the Pearson correlation coefficient has been computed as a qualitative way of assessing the curve progression of the data sets. RESULTS: The results show an improvement in the correlation coefficient between the experimental data and the simulated muscle activities when taking crosstalk into account. CONCLUSIONS: Although the correlation coefficient increased when the crosstalk model was utilized, it is questionable if the discretization of both, the crosstalk and the musculoskeletal model, is accurate enough.}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SuessKubowitschVerkerkeetal., author = {S{\"u}ß, Franz and Kubowitsch, Simone and Verkerke, Gijsbertus Jacob and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Investigation of cognitive stress induced changes in spinal disc forces due to altered kinematics and muscle activity}, series = {World Congress Biomechanics, Dublin, 2018}, booktitle = {World Congress Biomechanics, Dublin, 2018}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SuessKubowitschVerkerkeetal., author = {S{\"u}ß, Franz and Kubowitsch, Simone and Verkerke, Gijsbertus Jacob and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {The influence of mental stress on spinal disc loading and muscle activity}, series = {23th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, Sevilla, Spain, 2017}, booktitle = {23th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, Sevilla, Spain, 2017}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{PillingSuessKubowitschetal., author = {Pilling, A. and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Kubowitsch, Simone and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Experimental workflow for determining psychological stress from physiological biosignals}, series = {Jahrestagung der BIOMEDIZINISCHEN TECHNIK und Dreil{\"a}ndertagung der MEDIZINISCHEN PHYSIK, Dresden, Germany, 2017}, booktitle = {Jahrestagung der BIOMEDIZINISCHEN TECHNIK und Dreil{\"a}ndertagung der MEDIZINISCHEN PHYSIK, Dresden, Germany, 2017}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KubowitschSuessJansenetal., author = {Kubowitsch, Simone and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Jansen, Petra and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Comparison of dynamic muscular imbalances in back pain patients and healthy controls}, series = {World Congress Biomechanics Dublin, 2018}, booktitle = {World Congress Biomechanics Dublin, 2018}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{GrossSuessVerkerkeetal., author = {Gross, Simon and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Verkerke, Gijsbertus Jacob and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Simulating fatigue in musculoskeletal models using surface electromyography, ECCOMAS Congress, Crete, Greece, 201}, series = {ECCOMAS Congress, Crete, Greece, 2016}, booktitle = {ECCOMAS Congress, Crete, Greece, 2016}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{KubowitschSuessJansenetal., author = {Kubowitsch, Simone and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Jansen, Petra and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Muscular imbalances during experimentally induced stress}, series = {23th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, Sevilla, Spain, 2017}, booktitle = {23th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, Sevilla, Spain, 2017}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SuessKubowitschVerkerkeetal., author = {S{\"u}ß, Franz and Kubowitsch, Simone and Verkerke, Gijsbertus Jacob and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {The influence of stress on spinal loading}, series = {ESEM webconference, Dez. 2017}, booktitle = {ESEM webconference, Dez. 2017}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{SuessPutzerDendorfer, author = {S{\"u}ß, Franz and Putzer, Michael and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Numerische und experimentelle Untersuchungen an der Wirbels{\"a}ule}, series = {Forschungssymposium Bad Abbach, Germany, 2015}, booktitle = {Forschungssymposium Bad Abbach, Germany, 2015}, language = {de} } @misc{AuerKrutschRenkawitzetal., author = {Auer, Simon and Krutsch, Werner and Renkawitz, Tobias and Kubowitsch, Simone and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Effect of mental demand on leg loading in highly dynamic motion}, series = {AnyBody online Webinar, Oct 2020}, journal = {AnyBody online Webinar, Oct 2020}, abstract = {Football players have a high risk of leg muscle injuries, especially when exposed to mental stress. Injuries to muscles of the thigh are common in amateur and professional football, representing almost a third of all injuries. These injuries occur primarily in non-contact situations and from overuse. They can lead to a range of costs, including financial costs associated with treatment as well as those associated with long-term recovery, and absence from training and/or competition. Further, there is a high risk of injury recurrence and subsequent injury.}, language = {en} } @article{AuerKrutschRenkawitzetal., author = {Auer, Simon and Krutsch, Werner and Renkawitz, Tobias and Kubowitsch, Simone and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Kognitiver Stress f{\"u}hrt zu unphysiologisch erh{\"o}hten Kniebelastungen im Profifußball}, series = {Sports Orthopaedics and Traumatology}, volume = {36}, journal = {Sports Orthopaedics and Traumatology}, number = {2}, publisher = {Elsevier}, doi = {10.1016/j.orthtr.2020.04.122}, pages = {202 -- 203}, language = {de} } @inproceedings{SuessKubowitschRasmussenetal., author = {S{\"u}ß, Franz and Kubowitsch, Simone and Rasmussen, John and Verkerke, Gijsbertus Jacob and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {The influence of cognitive stress on muscle activation and spinal disc load}, series = {European Society of Biomechanics meeting 2019, Vienna, Austria}, booktitle = {European Society of Biomechanics meeting 2019, Vienna, Austria}, language = {en} } @misc{AurbachSuessDendorfer, author = {Aurbach, Maximilian and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {The impact of the hill type muscle model on the glenohumeral joint reaction force}, series = {16th International Symposium on Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering (CMBBE) 2019, New York City, USA}, journal = {16th International Symposium on Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering (CMBBE) 2019, New York City, USA}, language = {en} } @inproceedings{AurbachWagnerSuessetal., author = {Aurbach, Maximilian and Wagner, Kilian and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Implementation and Validation of Human Kinematics Measured Using IMUs for Musculoskeletal Simulations by the Evaluation of Joint Reaction Forces}, series = {CMBEBIH 2017, Proceedings of the International Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering 2017, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina}, volume = {Vol. 62}, booktitle = {CMBEBIH 2017, Proceedings of the International Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering 2017, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina}, editor = {Badnjevic, Almir}, publisher = {Springer}, address = {Singapore}, doi = {10.1007/978-981-10-4166-2_31}, pages = {205 -- 211}, abstract = {The gold standard for the analysis of human kinematics and kinetics is a camera-based motion capture system in combination with force measurement platforms. Alternatively, inertial measurement units can be utilized to obtain human kinematics, while ground reaction forces are computed from full body dynamics. This setup represents a system independent from the spatial confinement of a gait laboratory. The aim of this study is the comparison of the two methods by the investigation of lower limb kinematics and the resulting joint reaction forces within the ankle-, knee- and hip joints. For this purpose, human motion during gait was captured simultaneously by both measurement techniques. 13 trials from 8 different test subjects were evaluated in total. IMU data was processed with a quaternion based Kalman Filter. The data sets were implemented into a musculoskeletal simulation program in order to drive a virtual human body model. Each sensor was aligned to the gravitational and magnetic field vectors of the earth. The angles of flexions, extensions and rotations were analyzed to determine kinematic differences. Joint reaction forces defined kinetic dissimilarities. The overall kinematic differences of both models yielded root mean square errors of 7.62°, 6.02°, 4.95°, 2.79°, 2.38° and 3.56° for ankle flexion, subtalar eversion, knee flexion, hip external rotation, hip abduction and hip flexion, respectively. The proximo-distal differences in force peaks between the models yielded overall for the ankle, 57.33 \%Bodyweight(BW) ± 46.86 \%BW (16.66 \%(Maximum peak to peak) ± 13.62 \%) for the knee 37.09 \%BW ± 29.33 \%BW (17.65 \% ± 15.44 \%) and 32.03 \%BW ± 24.33 \%BW (15.6 \% ± 12.54 \%) for the hip. The overall outcome of this work investigated an approach independent of the common setup of the gait laboratory, thus enabling a cheaper and more flexible technology as an alternative. However, kinematic and thus kinetic differences remain rather large. Future work aims to improve the contact criterion for the calculation of the ground reaction forces and the implementation of a full-body calibration algorithm for the IMU system in order to counteract magnetic field disturbances.}, subject = {Bewegungsapparat}, language = {en} } @misc{AdlerFoerstlSuessetal., author = {Adler, Ina and F{\"o}rstl, Nikolas and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Biomechanical exposition of the factors influencing the pelvic floor muscle activity}, series = {ESB 2024, 29th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, 30 June-3 July 2024, Edinburgh, Scotland}, journal = {ESB 2024, 29th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, 30 June-3 July 2024, Edinburgh, Scotland}, abstract = {Introduction About 40 \% of the women worldwide suffer from Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions [1]. In previous studies, musculoskeletal simulations helped to understand and facilitate the complex issues of musculoskeletal disorders in several different branches [2, 3]. A fundamental prerequisite for the generation of these models is to have a basic understanding of the stresses acting on the pelvic floor. The aim of this study is to investigate the biomechanical factors influencing the activity of the pelvic floor muscles by establishing a parameterised model. Methods To identify the factors that affect the pelvic floor muscles, the process is divided into several stages. The first step is to investigate the loads acting on the pelvic floor. For this, a simplified sagittal cross-sectional model of the upper body is analysed. The discretization of the abdominal cavity is presented with resulting force vectors representing the organs in the abdominal and pelvic region, the tensile force of the structures that fixate the organs as well as the intraabdominal pressure. A second step is the examination of the basic mechanics of the pelvic floor muscles. As the functional anatomy of these muscles demonstrate differences compared to other muscle groups [4], the understanding of how they differ is crucial for the construction of musculoskeletal models. After a static examination of loads on a simplified muscle model, an extended model including the physiological properties of a muscle must be involved in the considerations. Therefore, the influence of parameters such as the ideal muscle strength and fibre length, as well as elasticity or passive stiffness of the elements must be taken into account. The influencing factors of the variables can be analysed in a simplified pelvic floor muscle model by systematically changing the parameters. Results The process of analysing the factors influencing the activity of the pelvic floor muscles follows two main strategies. The review of the effects of the whole body identifies the forces acting on the pelvic floor muscles and effect their activity. With the examination of the basic mechanics of a simplified pelvic floor muscle model a better understanding is achieved of how the pelvic floor muscles absorb the loads acting in the body. Discussion This process results in the main influence factors on the activity of the pelvic floor. The consequent parameters form the basis for a biomechanically justified construction of musculoskeletal simulation models of the pelvic floor. Nevertheless, it must be considered, that these mechanical studies represent simplifications of the reality. References 1. Wang et al, Front Public Health, 10:975829, 2022. 2. Bulat et al., Curr Sports Med Rep, 18(6):210-216, 2019 3. Melzner et al., Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol, 264:306-313, 2021 4. Ashton-Miller et al., Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1101:266-96, 2007}, language = {en} } @misc{AuerReinkerSuessetal., author = {Auer, Simon and Reinker, Lukas and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Kubowitsch, Simone and Krutsch, Werner and Weber, Markus and Renkawitz, Tobias and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Webcast: Effect of mental demand on leg loading in highly dynamic motion}, abstract = {Football players have a high risk of leg muscle injuries, especially when exposed to mental stress. Injuries to muscles of the thigh are common in amateur and professional football, representing almost a third of all injuries. These injuries occur primarily in non-contact situations and from overuse. They can lead to a range of costs, including financial costs associated with treatment as well as those associated with long-term recovery, and absence from training and/or competition. Further, there is a high risk of injury recurrence and subsequent injury.}, language = {en} } @article{FoerstlSuessEnglertetal., author = {F{\"o}rstl, Nikolas and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Englert, Carsten and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Design of a reverse shoulder implant to measure shoulder stiffness during implant component positioning}, series = {Medical Engineering \& Physics}, volume = {121}, journal = {Medical Engineering \& Physics}, edition = {Journal Pre-proof}, publisher = {Elsevier}, doi = {10.1016/j.medengphy.2023.104059}, pages = {22}, abstract = {To avoid dislocation of the shoulder joint after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, it is important to achieve sufficient shoulder stability when placing the implant components during surgery. One parameter for assessing shoulder stability can be shoulder stiffness. The aim of this research was to develop a temporary reverse shoulder implant prototype that would allow intraoperative measurement of shoulder stiffness while varying the position of the implant components. Joint angle and torque measurement techniques were developed to determine shoulder stiffness. Hall sensors were used to measure the joint angles by converting the magnetic flux densities into angles. The accuracy of the joint angle measurements was tested using a test bench. Torques were determined by using thin-film pressure sensors. Various mechanical mechanisms for variable positioning of the implant components were integrated into the prototype. The results of the joint angle measurements showed measurement errors of less than 5° in a deflection range of ±15° adduction/abduction combined with ±45° flexion/extension. The proposed design provides a first approach for intra-operative assessment of shoulder stiffness. The findings can be used as a technological basis for further developments.}, language = {en} } @article{FoerstlAdlerSuessetal., author = {F{\"o}rstl, Nikolas and Adler, Ina and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Technologies for Evaluation of Pelvic Floor Functionality: A Systematic Review}, series = {Sensors}, volume = {24}, journal = {Sensors}, number = {12}, publisher = {MDPI}, doi = {10.3390/s24124001}, abstract = {Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common problem in women and has a negative impact on their quality of life. The aim of this review was to provide a general overview of the current state of technology used to assess pelvic floor functionality. It also provides literature research of the physiological and anatomical factors that correlate with pelvic floor health. This systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and IEEE databases were searched for publications on sensor technology for the assessment of pelvic floor functionality. Anatomical and physiological parameters were identified through a manual search. In the systematic review, 114 publications were included. Twelve different sensor technologies were identified. Information on the obtained parameters, sensor position, test activities, and subject characteristics was prepared in tabular form from each publication. A total of 16 anatomical and physiological parameters influencing pelvic floor health were identified in 17 published studies and ranked for their statistical significance. Taken together, this review could serve as a basis for the development of novel sensors which could allow for quantifiable prevention and diagnosis, as well as particularized documentation of rehabilitation processes related to pelvic floor dysfunctions.}, language = {en} } @misc{FoerstlSuessEnglertetal., author = {F{\"o}rstl, Nikolas and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Englert, Carsten and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Design of a reverse shoulder implant to measure shoulder stiffness during implant component positioning}, series = {Book of abstracts / ESB 2023, 28th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, 9-12 July 2023, Maastricht, The Netherlands.}, journal = {Book of abstracts / ESB 2023, 28th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, 9-12 July 2023, Maastricht, The Netherlands.}, abstract = {Introduction Dislocation of the shoulder joint is one of the more common complications after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty [1], which is often associated with malposition of the prosthetic components [2]. Therefore, achieving sufficient shoulder stability should not be neglected when positioning the implant components. One parameter for assessing shoulder stability can be shoulder stiffness. The aim of this work is to develop a reverse shoulder implant prototype that allows intraoperative measurement of shoulder stiffness while varying the position of the implant components. The measured stiffness could provide a quantitative statement regarding the optimal positioning of the implant components, which can be adjusted accordingly in the final reverse shoulder prosthesis. Methods To measure the stiffness of the shoulder joint, it is necessary to record the joint angles and the torques generated during movement. The changes in the rotation angles were measured using 3D hall sensors and magnets. The magnets were placed under the humerosocket, and the hall sensors were integrated into the glenosphere. The strength of the magnetic field was used to determine the position of the humerosocket in relation to the glenosphere. The accuracies of the angle measurements were tested using a test bench. Three thin film pressure sensors were used to record forces at different points under the humerosocket. To obtain a force value from the sensor signal, the sensors were calibrated using a load cell. The variation of the implant components positions was integrated into the prototype implant through different constructive mechanisms to adjust the stiffness of the shoulder joint. Results In the range of ±45° flexion/extension combined with ±15° adduction/abduction, the joint position could be determined with sufficient accuracy (error e ≤ 5°). The areas near the combined maximum deflections of ±45° flexion/extension and ±45° adduction/abduction indicate the greatest deviation from the target angle. The force values of the thin film sensors enable the calculation of moments around two axes. As variable component position parameters, the tray offset, the neck-shaft angle and the humerus version were integrated into the implant prototype. Discussion Ideally, the accuracy of the angle measurements should only depend on the amount of deflection and not on the direction of deflection. The asymmetric behavior indicates a deviation from the correct positioning of the hall sensors. The application of a calibration matrix could compensate for the measurement errors and could demonstrate the potential of the new method for joint angle measurements. The accuracy of the torque measurements and the functionality of the mechanical arresting mechanisms must be investigated in further studies. Overall, the developed measurement method can help to avoid malpositioning of the implant components in reverse total shoulder arthroplasty. References 1. Clark et al, J Shoulder and elbow surgery, 21:36-41 2012. 2. Randelli et al, J Musculoskeletal surgery, 98:15-18, 2014.}, language = {en} } @misc{MelznerIsmailRušavyetal., author = {Melzner, Maximilian and Ismail, Khaled M. and Rušav{\´y}, Zdeněk and Kališ, Vladim{\´i}r and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Musculoskeletal Lower Back Load of Accoucheurs During Delivery}, series = {26th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, July 11-14, 2021, Milan, Italy}, journal = {26th Congress of the European Society of Biomechanics, July 11-14, 2021, Milan, Italy}, address = {Milan}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:898-opus4-20208}, abstract = {With the progress in modern medicine, it was possible to significantly reduce the risks of birth for mother and child. One aspect that has received less attention so far is the risk of injury to the accoucheurs (obstetricians and midwives) during the birth process. Indeed, studies indicate that 92\% of midwives suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, with the lower back being the main cause of complaints (72\%). The aim of this study was to investigate two commonly used postural techniques used by accoucheurs during childbirth and to analyze the resulting load on the lower back using the AnyBodyTM musculoskeletal simulation software.}, language = {en} } @article{MelznerIsmailRušavyetal., author = {Melzner, Maximilian and Ismail, Khaled M. and Rušavy, Zdenek and Kališ, Vladim{\´i}r and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Musculoskeletal lower back load of accoucheurs during childbirth - A pilot and feasibility study}, series = {European Journal of Obstetrics \& Gynecology and Reproductive Biology}, journal = {European Journal of Obstetrics \& Gynecology and Reproductive Biology}, number = {264}, publisher = {Elsevier}, doi = {10.1016/j.ejogrb.2021.07.042}, pages = {306 -- 313}, abstract = {Introduction: Back problems represent one of the leading causes of accouchers' work-related musculoskeletal morbidities. The correct execution of birth-related maneuvers including manual perineal protection is crucial not only for the mother and child but also for obstetricians and midwives to reduce any strain on their musculoskeletal system. Therefore, the overall aim of this study was to test the feasibility of determining the effect of different accouchers' postures (standing and kneeling) on their musculoskeletal system. Methods: The biomechanical analysis is based on musculoskeletal simulations that included motion recordings of real deliveries as well as deliveries conducted on a birthing simulator. These simulations were then used to determine individual joints' loads. Results: In the kneeling posture, both a low intra-operator variability and a lower average maximum load of the lower back was observed. For the standing position the spine load was reduced by pivoting the elbow on the accouchers' thigh, which in turn was associated with a significantly greater load on the shoulder joint. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the feasibility of our technique to assess joints loads. It also provided initial data indicating that a posture that reduces spinal flexion and tilt, achieved in this study by the kneeling, can significantly reduce the strain on the practitioner's musculoskeletal system.}, language = {en} } @article{BarthelSuessDendorfer, author = {Barthel, Mareike and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Application of a transformer encoder for the prediction of intra-abdominal pressure}, series = {Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering}, journal = {Computer Methods in Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering}, publisher = {Taylor \& Francis}, doi = {10.1080/10255842.2025.2586143}, pages = {11}, abstract = {Intra-abdominal pressure is a significant physiological parameter influencing spinal stability and pelvic floor health. This study investigates the potential of a transformer encoder model to predict IAP using motion capture data and musculoskeletal modeling. Data from 211 subjects performing walking, fast walking, and running were used to train a transformer encoder. The model showed promising results with an overall Mean Absolute Percentage Error of 13.5\% and a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.85. Predictions for fast walking and running proved to be more challenging compared to walking, which was attributed to the greater variability and complexity of faster movements.}, language = {en} } @misc{GschossmannSuessDendorfer, author = {Gschoßmann, Lukas and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Impact of Model Parameters on Ground Reaction Force Predictions in Musculoskeletal Modelling}, series = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27-31 July, Stockholm}, journal = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27-31 July, Stockholm}, abstract = {This study evaluated how model parameters affect ground reaction force (GRF) predictions in musculoskeletal simulations. A parameter study varying contact height and velocity thresholds and marker weights was conducted. While height and velocity thresholds had minimal impact, marker weights impact prediction errors. These findings highlight the importance of carefully selecting model parameters.}, language = {en} } @misc{FoerstlAdlerSuessetal., author = {F{\"o}rstl, Nikolas and Adler, Ina and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Jansov{\´a}, Magdalena and Vychytil, Jan and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Evaluating the loads on the female pelvic floor during full-body activities using computational models}, abstract = {This work investigated the loads on the female pelvic floor during various full-body movements using computational models to calculate abdominal pressure and organ dynamic loads. While high-impact exercises resulted in higher loads, other movements showed lower loads, potentially indicating, which movements may be performed without risking pelvic floor overload and subsequent dysfunctions.}, language = {en} } @misc{BarthelSuessDendorfer, author = {Barthel, Mareike and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Predicting intra-abdominal pressure during walking and running}, series = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27-31. July 2025, Stockholm}, journal = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27-31. July 2025, Stockholm}, abstract = {Intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) is an important physiological parameter, which is difficult to measure during physical activity. In this study, motion capture, musculoskeletal modeling and a transformer encoder model are used to predict IAP during walking and running. The model showed promising results with an overall mean percentage error of 13.5\% and a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.85. Minor challenges included the lower accuracy for fast walking and running and the limited amount of data. All in all, the prediction of IAP was successful, which opens up prospects for further applications.}, language = {en} } @misc{AdlerFoerstlČechovaetal., author = {Adler, Ina and F{\"o}rstl, Nikolas and Čechov{\´a}, Hana and Nov{\´a}ček, V{\´i}t and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Mechanistic analysis of pelvic floor functionality using musculoskeletal simulation}, series = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27-31 July 2025, Stockholm}, journal = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27-31 July 2025, Stockholm}, doi = {10.35096/othr/pub-8729}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:898-opus4-87294}, pages = {1}, abstract = {There is consensus that knowledge about the fundamentals of the pelvic floor remains incomplete, particularly regarding the sensitivity of individual pelvic floor muscles to posture variations. This study aimed to investigate the effects of variations in pelvic tilt and the point of force application induced by changes in posture on pelvic floor activity using musculoskeletal simulation. A parameter study analysed various loading cases, highlighting the coherent response of individual pelvic floor muscles to loads. Muscle activities and forces were compared across different force application points and pelvic tilt angles. A key finding was identifying peak muscle activity conditions that could help better understand the causes of pelvic floor disorders.}, language = {en} } @misc{GschossmannSchedelSuessetal., author = {Gschoßmann, Lukas and Schedel, Valentin and S{\"u}ß, Franz and Weber, Markus and Pfingsten, Andrea and Dendorfer, Sebastian}, title = {Evaluating Knee Joint Loads Across Exercises and Activities of Daily Living to Personalize TKA Rehabilitation}, series = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27.-31. July 2025, Stockholm}, journal = {ISB 2025 - The XXX Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics, 27.-31. July 2025, Stockholm}, doi = {10.35096/othr/pub-8725}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:898-opus4-87252}, pages = {1}, abstract = {This study assessed knee joint loading during various physiotherapy exercises and activities of daily living in 30 healthy subjects. Results showed that lunges and squats caused the highest joint forces, while gait and stair activities also imposed substantial loads. These findings support datadriven exercise selection for personalized rehabilitation after total knee arthroplasty.}, language = {en} } @phdthesis{Suess, author = {S{\"u}ß, Franz}, title = {The influence of mental stress on the musculoskeletal human back during static posture and trunk motion}, doi = {10.5283/epub.46055}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:bvb:355-epub-460554}, pages = {106}, abstract = {The investigation of the influence of mental stress on muscle recruitment of the back and its effect on the intervertebral discs was the main focus of this work. Furthermore, the goal was to develop algorithms to use mental stress as an input parameter in musculoskeletal simulation models. In the first step, a study was designed to investigate the influence of emotional and cognitive stress without kinetic influencing factors during sitting. At the muscular level, emotional stress was found to affect the upper back, while cognitive stress elicited higher muscle activity in the upper and lower back. Using a newly developed algorithm to apply back muscle recruitment changes to static inverse kinematic simulation models, load increases at the discs of up to 189 N on average and up to 907 N at peak were found.Based on the results of the first study, a second dynamic study was designed and conducted. In this case, the focus was on the cognitive stressor and the lower back. Using a dynamometer, subject-specific loads were applied during extension and flexion of the upper back. In contrast to the first study, in the upper back, only the right m. trapezius pars descendens showed a load-induced difference in muscle activity, but the lower back did. To investigate the effects of muscle tone increase in detail, the algorithm developed in the first study was extended to the dynamic case. The use of simulation models allowed the inference of the effects of the purely stress-induced tone increase. For this purpose, the kinetic and muscular effects were isolated and simulated. The study revealed a stress increase of 47\% of the body weight in the L4L5 disc. The final numerical study focused on the general application of muscle activities to inverse kinematic simulation models. This was based on the novel simulation algorithm used in study two and the measured muscle activities. The simulation of the measured muscle activities formed the link between reality and simulation. To simulate the activities, neural networks and gradient boosting regression algorithms were investigated. The latter were found to be better suited to represent the data. However, the data is too small for a detailed statement, especially for loads below 100\%. The results of this work can help to better assess the musculoskeletal effects of psychological stress on the musculoskeletal system and, if necessary, to develop ergonomic prevention strategies. By recognizing stress-related kinematic difference, as well as subsequent prompting of trunk movement, could help prevent long-term effects. When examining any situation, the combination of machine learning and musculoskeletal simulation tools can help examine and minimize the effects of psychological stress.}, language = {en} }