Case Study: University of Missouri improves knee biomechanics research with MSC Software Adams

Adams Simulations Help Diagnose Knee Problems

The University of Missouri’s Mizzou Motion Analysis Center wanted a better way to understand knee biomechanics, especially the role of the menisci and how loosening of the ligaments that attach them to the tibia can affect stability, injury risk, and treatment. To study these connected components, the researchers needed a multibody dynamics simulation tool with enough computing power to model the knee in detail, and they chose MSC Software’s Adams.

Using MSC Software’s Adams, the team built subject-specific knee models from motion capture, MRI, force plate, and EMG data. The simulations predicted ground reaction forces with over 90% correlation to physical results, accurately predicted internal contact forces, and showed that increasing ligament length by about 20% could lead to almost a complete loss of force transfer through the menisci during walking.

University of Missouri

Trent Guess

Associate Professor of Physical Therapy and Orthopedic Surgery