Neuromusculoskeletal Modeling and Force Prediction: Verification Through Experimental Neuromuscular Dynamics.

Abstract

Neuromusculoskeletal (NMS) function is influenced by the interactions between neural and musculoskeletal systems. Age-related changes in motor unit morphology contribute to changes in motor control and force production with advancing age; however, a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms between force production and motor unit reorganization and their interrelationships is needed to develop targeted therapies and interventions to age-related changes. Direct experimental measurement of these neuromuscular changes is challenging due to ethical and logistical constraints and the complexity of isolating individual motor unit contributions in vivo, particularly across time. Computational modeling provides a complementary approach which can help bridge this gap. The objective of this study is to develop a computational framework for predicting dorsiflexion force profiles through the translation of experimental motor unit recordings into simulated musculoskeletal responses.