Soft tissue contributions to impact forces simulated using a four-segment wobbling mass model of forefoot-heel landings

Abstract

Rigid body models have been used to simulate the forces experienced in human impacts. This paper presented an original wobbling mass simulation model of forefoot landings and demonstrated the important contribution soft tissues have in load attenuation during landing. The paper presented research that has implications for the realistic modelling of impacts and for developing insight into injury prevention strategies. The model was used to formulate the New Investigators award-winning research presented at the International Society of Biomechanics in Sport conference in 2006. Gittoes developed, evaluated and applied the model and wrote the first draft of the manuscript.