Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
1.9
1.4
Journals
Biomechanics
Special Issues
Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation
share announcement

Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation

A special issue of Biomechanics (ISSN 2673-7078). This special issue belongs to the section "Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 July 2026 | Viewed by 10708

Editors

Dr. Sujata Khandare

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1079, USA
Interests: musculoskeletal modeling; computational biomechanics; injury biomechanics; rehabilitation; biomedical imaging; finite element analysis; AI in biomechanics
Dr. Fan Gao

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, College of Education, University of Kentucky, 214 Seaton Center, Lexington, KY 40506, USA
Interests: hand biomechanics and motor control; neural network modeling; musculoskeletal modeling/simulation; development of rehabilitation devices; prosthetics & orthotics; gait
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Research on injury biomechanics and rehabilitation is undergoing a transformative shift through the integration of computational modeling and artificial intelligence (AI). This Special Issue aims to bring together innovative research at the intersection of computational biomechanics, musculoskeletal modeling, biomedical image processing, and machine learning to improve our understanding of injury mechanisms and develop effective rehabilitation strategies. We welcome studies focusing on the development and application of subject-specific musculoskeletal models, finite element simulations, or AI-driven medical image analysis to study human movement, tissue mechanics, injury risk, treatment outcomes, and rehabilitation planning. We are particularly keen to publish manuscripts addressing data-driven approaches to predicting injury susceptibility, analyzing joint/tissue mechanics, or developing therapeutic interventions using computational or imaging tools. Putative topics include, but are not limited to, the following areas: injury biomechanics and tissue modeling; computational models of musculoskeletal injury and repair AI and deep learning in medical image analysis; personalized rehabilitation strategies using simulation-based approaches; predictive modeling for injury risk assessment; the integration of imaging and modeling for subject-specific analysis; and the model-based evaluation of clinical interventions or devices. The goal of this Special Issue is to foster interdisciplinary collaborations with a strong emphasis on translational and clinically relevant findings.

Dr. Sujata Khandare
Dr. Fan Gao
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomechanics is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • injury biomechanics
  • rehabilitation
  • musculoskeletal modeling
  • joint mechanics
  • tissue mechanics
  • computational musculoskeletal modeling

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

16 pages, 3673 KB  
Article
Application of the Strain Energy Density Criterion for Patient-Specific Geometry-Based Fracture Healing Simulation
by Tingyu Dai, Robin Reinardt, Michael Roland, Stefan Diebels, Bergita Ganse, Marcel Orth and Gargi Shankar Nayak
Biomechanics 2026, 6(2), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics6020046 - 11 May 2026
Viewed by 468
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Strain energy density-based algorithms are widely applied in modelling bone healing, yet their use under patient-specific geometry-based conditions remains underdeveloped. This study proposes a patient-specific geometry-based framework for fracture healing simulation and investigates how different postoperative loading conditions influence the mechanical [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Strain energy density-based algorithms are widely applied in modelling bone healing, yet their use under patient-specific geometry-based conditions remains underdeveloped. This study proposes a patient-specific geometry-based framework for fracture healing simulation and investigates how different postoperative loading conditions influence the mechanical environment of callus remodeling. Methods: Using postoperative radiographic data of a 63-year-old male patient with a distal diaphyseal tibial fracture and concomitant proximal and distal fibular fractures, a three-dimensional finite element model of the tibia was reconstructed, imported into a multiphysics simulation environment, and coupled with an iterative numerical algorithm. A uniform initial callus density of 750 kg/m3 was assumed as a simplified and homogenized representation of the healing tissue. The effects of different mechanical loading conditions (partial weight-bearing, physiological loading, and supraphysiological loading) on the mechanical response and density evolution of the callus were evaluated. Results: Partial weight-bearing resulted in insufficient mechanical stimulation and progressive density loss within the callus. Physiological loading generated strain energy density levels consistent with known osteogenic ranges and contributed to continuous cortical shell formation and overall density increase. Supraphysiological loading was associated with overload-related resorption and spatial heterogeneity, which may reduce callus stability. Conclusions: The findings suggest that loading magnitude may influence the simulated remodeling response of the callus under the assumptions of the present model. These results indicate that intermediate loading conditions were associated with a more pronounced remodeling response compared to reduced or excessive loading for the investigated case. The comparison with postoperative clinical imaging showed qualitative agreement in the spatial distribution of mineralized and less mineralized regions, supporting the feasibility of the proposed patient-specific geometry-based SED-based framework. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 9249 KB  
Article
Personalization of the Toyota Human Model for Safety (THUMS) Using Avatar-Driven Morphing for Biomechanical Simulations
by Ann N. Reyes, Timothy R. DeWitt and Reuben H. Kraft
Biomechanics 2026, 6(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics6020037 - 7 Apr 2026
Viewed by 535
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This paper investigates the application of radial basis function (RBF) interpolation to adapt the Toyota Human Model for Safety (THUMS) version 6 finite element (FE) models to diverse anthropometric profiles using ANSUR II data. The research focuses on generating personalized human [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This paper investigates the application of radial basis function (RBF) interpolation to adapt the Toyota Human Model for Safety (THUMS) version 6 finite element (FE) models to diverse anthropometric profiles using ANSUR II data. The research focuses on generating personalized human body models (HBMs) across 50th, 80th, and 98th percentiles for both sexes in standing and seated postures, evaluating mesh quality with quantitative metrics, and assessing posture-dependent transformations. Methods: The geometric accuracy for the standing configuration was quantified using DICE similarity coefficients and the 95th percentile Hausdorff distance (HD95). Results: While global whole-body DICE similarity averaged approximately 0.40 due to an inherent variability in distal limb positioning, regional analysis demonstrated strong volumetric overlap in the critical chest and torso regions with DICE values ranging from 0.80 to 0.88. Regional HD95 values were within 20–30 mm across most of the surface area. Surfaces distance analyses showed that more than 95% of the nodes were within ±20 mm of the target surfaces with the distribution centered near zero across all the percentiles. The mesh quality for both standing and seated morphs demonstrated low violation rates with the aspect ratio being 28% to 30%, while warpage, skewness and, Jacobian determinants were less than 15%. The seated morphs preserved anatomical alignment and posture despite mesh density differences between the postures. Conclusions: These findings indicate that the morphing process preserves anatomical fidelity while highlighting the need for further optimization to mitigate localized distortions in dynamic simulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2161 KB  
Article
Effects of Weight-Bearing-Induced Changes in Tibial Inclination Angle on Varus Thrust During Gait in Female Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
by Ryosuke Karashima, Shintaro Kishimoto, Takuya Ibara, Kiyotaka Hada, Tatsuo Motoyama, Masayuki Kawashima, Yusuke Murofushi and Hiroshi Katoh
Biomechanics 2025, 5(4), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5040098 - 1 Dec 2025
Viewed by 1028
Abstract
Background: The relationship between varus thrust (VT) during gait and static limb alignment on radiography in knee osteoarthritis (OA) remains unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated the association between the tibial inclination angle (TA), which was noninvasively measured from the body surface, and [...] Read more.
Background: The relationship between varus thrust (VT) during gait and static limb alignment on radiography in knee osteoarthritis (OA) remains unclear. Therefore, the present study investigated the association between the tibial inclination angle (TA), which was noninvasively measured from the body surface, and radiographic parameters. In Addition, this study analyzed how TA changes under different loading conditions (ΔTA) relate to VT acceleration (VTA) during early stance using an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor. Methods: Nineteen female patients (mean age: 63.5 ± 8.6 years) with knee OA or medial meniscus injury were included. The TA was defined as the angle between the tibial mechanical axis and a vertical line from the floor, which was measured in standardized standing and supine positions. The ΔTA was calculated as the difference between these positions. To assess lower limb alignment, the femorotibial angle (FTA) and joint line convergence angle (JLCA) were measured. The VTA was measured using IMU sensors on the thigh and tibia, and the differences between lateral and medial VTA were defined as femoral and tibial ΔVTA, respectively. Spearman’s correlation coefficient and linear regression were used for analysis. Results: The standing TA was significantly correlated with the FTA (ρ = 0.47, p = 0.04) and JLCA (ρ = 0.80, p < 0.01). The ΔTA was significantly associated with femoral ΔVTA (β = 0.70, p < 0.01) and tibial ΔVTA (β = 0.67, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Surface-measured TA reflects radiographic alignment. The ΔTA also captures dynamic instability not explained by static measures, suggesting its potential utility as an assessment indicator, although further validation is warranted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 3019 KB  
Article
Design and Testing of a Biomechanical Device for Pediatric Spastic Hand Rehabilitation
by Paulina Sofía Valle-Oñate, José Luis Jínez-Tapia, Luis Gonzalo Santillán-Valdiviezo, Carlos Ramiro Peñafiel-Ojeda, Deysi Vilma Inca Balseca and Juan Carlos Tixi Pintag
Biomechanics 2025, 5(4), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5040096 - 11 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1453
Abstract
Background: Children with spastic hand impairments resulting from cerebral palsy or neuromuscular disorders often exhibit a restricted range of motion and diminished functional use. Rehabilitation devices that assist joint mobilization can enhance therapeutic outcomes, yet few solutions target pediatric populations. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Children with spastic hand impairments resulting from cerebral palsy or neuromuscular disorders often exhibit a restricted range of motion and diminished functional use. Rehabilitation devices that assist joint mobilization can enhance therapeutic outcomes, yet few solutions target pediatric populations. Methods: This study aimed to design, implement, and preliminarily evaluate a biomechanical device tailored to promote flexo-extension, radial–ulnar deviation, and supination movements in spastic hands of school-aged children. A prototype combining a motor-driven actuation system, adjustable wrist and finger supports, and a MATLAB-based graphical user interface was developed. Two participants (aged 8 and 10) with clinically diagnosed spastic hemiparesis underwent 25-minute sessions over 15 consecutive days. Joint angles were recorded before and after each session using an electro-goniometer. Data normality was assessed via the Shapiro–Wilk test, and pre–post differences were analyzed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test (α = 0.05). Results: Both participants demonstrated consistent increases in their active range of motion across all measured planes. Median flexo-extension improved by 12.5° (p = 0.001), ulnar–radial deviation by 7.3° (p = 0.002), and supination by 9.1° (p = 0.001). No adverse events occurred, and device tolerance remained high throughout the intervention. Conclusions: The device facilitated statistically significant enhancements in joint mobility in a small pediatric cohort, supporting its feasibility and safety in spastic hand rehabilitation. These preliminary findings warrant larger controlled trials to confirm the device’s efficacy, optimize treatment protocols, and assess its long-term functional benefits. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1244 KB  
Article
Establishing Reference Metrics for Respiratory Exercises Through Wearable Sensors: A Comparative Study
by Federico Caramia, Emanuele D’Angelantonio, Leandro Lucangeli and Valentina Camomilla
Biomechanics 2025, 5(4), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5040090 - 5 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1177
Abstract
Background: Respiratory exercises play a key role in rehabilitation programs, especially for older adults and individuals with chronic pulmonary conditions. Despite growing interest in wearable sensors for home-based care, structured reference metrics to quantitatively characterize respiratory exercises are still limited. This study aimed [...] Read more.
Background: Respiratory exercises play a key role in rehabilitation programs, especially for older adults and individuals with chronic pulmonary conditions. Despite growing interest in wearable sensors for home-based care, structured reference metrics to quantitatively characterize respiratory exercises are still limited. This study aimed to provide a quantitative characterization of respiratory exercises and evaluate the level of agreement between a low-cost prototypical sensor and a commercial one. Methods: Eleven older adults (9 females; age = 72.6 ± 5.0 years; height = 1.66 ± 0.09 m; mass = 68 ± 10 kg) performed a structured respiratory exercises protocol. Algorithms were developed to identify respiratory cycles, their execution time, and parameters related to respiratory capacity, using accelerometer signals from the two wearable sensors placed on the rib cage. Results: The average respiratory cycle duration ranged from 2.8 to 4.3 s, with normalized inspiratory and expiratory peaks. Tidal volume variability was minimal, confirming consistency in breathing patterns across exercises. User comfort was high (mean VAS = 8.7). Sensor comparison confirmed strong agreement between the two sensors in detecting respiratory cycles, though some variability was observed in timing and tidal volume estimation. Conclusions: These findings suggest that even simple accelerometers can reliably capture key respiratory parameters, supporting the feasibility of using wearable sensors to monitor structured respiratory exercises performed in home-based settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

26 pages, 1643 KB  
Review
Exploring Opportunities for Advancements in Lower Limb Socket Fabrication and Testing: A Review
by Juan Sebastián Salgado Manrique and Christian Cifuentes-De la Portilla
Biomechanics 2025, 5(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomechanics5030064 - 1 Sep 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4830
Abstract
Limb amputation causes significant challenges for patients in achieving effective mobility and functionality through prosthetic limbs. The prosthetic socket plays a pivotal role in the success of rehabilitation. This review explores the current advancements in prosthetic socket design and fabrication, focusing on traditional [...] Read more.
Limb amputation causes significant challenges for patients in achieving effective mobility and functionality through prosthetic limbs. The prosthetic socket plays a pivotal role in the success of rehabilitation. This review explores the current advancements in prosthetic socket design and fabrication, focusing on traditional techniques like casting and lamination, and emerging technologies such as 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD). By comparing these methods, this review highlights the advantages, limitations, and suitability for different clinical needs. This article discusses the importance of pressure distribution in socket design, emphasizing the need to relieve pressure in sensitive areas to prevent skin complications. It also examines the materials used in socket fabrication, from high-density polymers to advanced composites, assessing their impact on patient comfort and prosthetic performance. Additionally, we discuss the challenges practitioners face in prosthetic care, particularly in low-resource settings, and propose potential solutions through innovative techniques and materials. Advancements in computational modeling improved socket design and validation, enhancing patient comfort and improving the overall biomechanical interaction between the prosthesis and the user. The manuscript concludes by identifying future research opportunities, particularly in personalized prosthetic design and the integration of smart materials, to further enhance the comfort, functionality, and accessibility of prosthetic sockets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computational Modeling and AI Applications in Injury Biomechanics and Rehabilitation)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-6
Back to TopTop