Foot and ankle multi-segment computer model to study ankle instability
We are looking for a bachelor/master student with an interest in computer modelling and the structures of the foot. Experience with Matlab is required.
Background and aim
Ankle inversion trauma is one of the most frequent occurring lower limb injuries. While most people recover, there remains a high chance of re-injuring the ankle and in some cases, the injury becomes chronic. Neuro-muscular control models are used to simulate human motion behaviour and to better understand which factors are related to higher, non-physiological, loading of the body. After an ankle trauma, several tissues are damaged and may not recover fully, or due to lack of control, foot posture may remain non-optimal. The aim of this study is to add a multi-segment foot and ankle model to Myonardo and study the factors that may play a role in ankle control after an inversion trauma.
Your assignment
Your assignment is to add an already developed multi-segmented foot and ankle model to Myonardo and attached the foot and ankle muscles to the proper insertion points. Your next step is to validate the model by means of available kinematic, kinetic and EMG data. And lastly, if time is available, you will study the effects of pathologic sensory delay due to ligament degeneration, OR the effects of foot posture on short-term muscle activation. If you are interested in doing some Lab work, you can also support the on-going subject measurements in the OpenLab
Possible Projects
BSc Research project or thesis; MSc Research project, thesis or work experience
What else do you need to know?
You will be working at the department of Movement Science located at Horstmarer Landweg 50 in Münster.