biomechanic

1. Introduction to Biomechanics
Objectives:
• Define basic concepts in biomechanics
• Provide an overview of the sports and
clinical applications of biomechanics
What is Biomechanics?
• Mechanics
the study of the action of forces on particles and
mechanical systems; a branch of physics
• System
an object or group of interacting objects
• Biomechanics
application of the principles of mechanics to the
study of living organisms (e.g. the human body
and its parts)
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2. Sub-branches of Mechanics
• Statics
branch of mechanics dealing with systems in a
constant state of motion;
includes systems that are:
– at rest (i.e. not moving)
– moving with a constant velocity
• Dynamics
branch of mechanics dealing with systems in
which acceleration is present
(i.e. where velocity is not constant)
Subdivisions of Mechanics
• Kinematics
the description of motion, including:
– considerations of space and time
– patterns and speeds of movement sequencing
the forces causing the motion are not considered
• Kinetics
study of the relationship between the forces
acting on a system and the motion of the system
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3. Additional Terminology
• Kinesiology
the study of
human
movement
(Hall, 2003)
• Anthropometry
study of the mechanical properties of body segments
(e.g. dimension, weight, etc.)
Who Uses Biomechanics?
• Phys.Ed. Teachers
• Coaches
• Athletic Trainers
• Physicians
• Physical Therapists
• Engineers
• Researchers
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4. What is Biomechanics Used For?
Improving Sports Performance
(MLB) (Viking)
technique equipment
(e.g. klapskates)
Sports Injury Prevention
applied force > tissue strength → injury
(Oregon State) (AirCast)
technique protective equipment
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5. Occupational Injury Prevention
(Ergonomics)
(Ohio State)
hand &
wrist
(Ohio State) trauma
low back pain
Injury Rehabilitation
FORCES
Passive motion
Strength training
RE-INJURY
Biking
TIME
Full wt.bearing
Squats
Running
Jumping
Cutting
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6. Reducing Physical or Functional Declines
osteoporosis
(NASA)
effects of
falls in older space flight
adults
Improving Mobility
(Vicon)
surgery planning in cerebral palsy
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7. Product Design
(Vicon) (Össur)
athletic shoes Flex-foot artificial hip
Why Study Biomechanics?
• Biomechanics:
– has many and wide-ranging applications
within health and sport sciences
– is used by professionals throughout health
and sport sciences
• This course will provide a foundation for:
– understanding the mechanical principles
underlying human movement
– applying these principles to the analysis of
human movement
• Understanding biomechanics will make you a
more competent professional !
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