Indirect way to estimate peak joint loads in life and in skeletal remains (insights from a new paradigm)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Bone adapts its strength and cross-sectional amount to the loads on it in now partly known ways. This makes it possible to estimate the unit loads on joint surfaces by an indirect method. METHODS: In essence, multiply the usual largest allowed compression load on a unit cross section area of epiphyseal trabecular bone (now approximately known), by the cross sectional amount of that bone that supports a unit area of the joint surface (partly known and readily measured by histomorphometry). This would equal the usual largest compression unit load on both the joint surface and the articular cartilage supported by that trabecular bone. RESULTS: Suggested typical peak unit loads on synovial joint surfaces in different joints and/or parts of joints could range from approximately 2 up to approximately 50 megapascals. CONCLUSIONS: Besides its use in studies of joint development, physiology and osteoarthritis in living subjects, this method could estimate muscle strength and joint loads from skeletal remains in anatomical, anthropologic, forensic-pathological, and even paleontologic studies.

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