The Twente lower extremity model. Consistent dynamic simulation of the human locomotor apparatus

Orthopedic interventions such as tendon transfers have shown to be successful in the treatment of gait disorders. Still, in many cases dysfunctions remained or worsened. To assist clinicians, an interactive tool will be useful that allows evaluation of if-then scenarios with respect to treatment methods. Comprehensive musculoskeletal models have shown a high potential to serve as such a tool. By varying anatomical model parameters, alterations in anatomy due to surgery can be implemented. Inverse and forward model simulations will provide insight in how respectively movement and muscle activations are affected by surgery. Yet, a successful application in clinical practice is hampered due to several shortcomings in existing models.