ENS02 Development of a muscle-actuated forward dynamic simulation of the muscles active during sprinting in both the rested and fatigued state.

Overview

In running-based sports, there is a prevailing belief among coaches that excessive anterior pelvic tilt during sprinting poses a significant risk for hamstring strain injury. Previous research using muscle-actuated forward modelling suggests that excessive anterior pelvic tilt increases stretch on the biceps femoris long head muscle, which is injured in 90% of hamstring strains. This modelling, while indicating a potential mechanism for hamstring strain at high speed, only considers speed as a variable. During gameplay, athletes are frequently required to perform repeat sprints, resulting in substantial fatigue.

In this project, the student will assist in the development of a muscle-actuated forward dynamic simulation of the muscles active during sprinting in both the rested and fatigued state. The student will use their anatomical and biomechanical knowledge to identify and model various muscles in the hip and knee using VICON 3D motion capture and surface electromyography technology.

Research engagement

Literature review

Laboratory experiments

Data collection

Data entry

Drafting or revising journal article (co-authorship on any subsequent publication)

Research activities

Working with a hamstring strain injury research team consisting of Anthony Shield and PhD student Zane Clayton, this will be a hands on experience for the student. The student can expect to be involved in:

- Vicon 3D motion capture

- Placement of reflective markers on participants for motion capture using anatomical landmarks learned in first and second year anatomy units

- Application of biomechanical principles during sprint data analysis

- Model building and data processing using MATLAB and VICON Bodybuilder

- Data analysis using SPSS

Outcomes

We expect the outcome of this work will help to model pelvic kinematics during sprinting in a fatigued state and what potential impact this has on biceps femoris long head strain.

Skills and experience

This VRES project requires the student to have in depth musculoskeletal knowledge. Specifically, an understanding of bony landmarks and muscle origins and insertions. Please note, all training for the student will be provided and their work will be supervised to ensure correct anatomical landmarks are followed.

In addition, an understanding of basic biomechanical principles and gait event identification will assist the VRES student.

Start date

1 November, 2024

End date

30 January, 2025

Location

QUT Kelvin Grove O Block A wing & B Wing

Keywords

• hamstring
• biomechanics
• 3D motion capture

Contact

Assoc. Prof Anthony Shield
aj.shield@qut.edu.au