1

Introduction to Biomechanics

Objectives:

• Define basic concepts in biomechanics

• Provide an overview of the sports and clinical applications of biomechanics

What is Biomechanics?

• Mechanicsthe study of the action of forces on particles and mechanical systems; a branch of physics

• Systeman object or group of interacting objects

• Biomechanicsapplication of the principles of mechanics to the study of living organisms (e.g. the human body and its parts)

2

Sub-branches of Mechanics

• Staticsbranch 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

• Dynamicsbranch of mechanics dealing with systems in which acceleration is present (i.e. where velocity is not constant)

Subdivisions of Mechanics

• Kinematicsthe description of motion, including: – considerations of space and time– patterns and speeds of movement sequencing

the forces causing the motion are not considered

• Kineticsstudy of the relationship between the forces acting on a system and the motion of the system

3

• Anthropometrystudy of the mechanical properties of body segments (e.g. dimension, weight, etc.)

• Kinesiologythe study of human movement

(Hall, 2003)

Additional Terminology

Who Uses Biomechanics?

• Phys.Ed. Teachers• Coaches• Athletic Trainers• Physicians• Physical Therapists• Engineers• Researchers

4

What is Biomechanics Used For?

equipment(e.g. klapskates)

(Viking)

technique(MLB)

Improving Sports Performance

Sports Injury Prevention

(AirCast)

applied force > tissue strength →→ injury

technique protective equipment(Oregon State)

5

Occupational Injury Prevention

(Ohio State)

low back pain

(Ergonomics)

(Ohio State)

hand & wrist

trauma

Injury Rehabilitation

Passive motion

Strength training

Biking

Full wt.bearing

Squats

Running

Jumping

Cutting

TIM

E

FORCES

RE-INJURY

6

Reducing Physical or Functional Declines

falls in older adults

osteoporosis

effects of space flight

(NASA)

Improving Mobility

surgery planning in cerebral palsy

(Vicon)

7

Product Design

(Vicon)

athletic shoes artificial hipFlex-foot(Össur)

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 !