A State-of-the-Art Integrative Approach to Studying Neck Biomechanics In Vivo

Neck injuries are significant causes of morbidity and mortality, and their chronic forms due to repetitive or sustained physical acts (e.g., prolonged use of mobile phone with a dropped head) are becoming increasingly more prevalent. Many injuries are preventable but the prevention and control requires a clear basic understanding of the neck biomechanics. This paper describes a systematic effort of integrating a gamut of state -of-the -art imaging modalities (dynamic radiography, CT, and MRI) and biodynamic measurements (motion capture, EMG, force sensing) to study how the neck and its various interconnected musculoskeletal components move and interact during functional activities in vivo.