Spine Biomechanics: A Review of Current Approaches

Abstract

The lumbar spine is a fundamental structure of the human body involved in almost any functional activity. Thus, the investigation of spine pathophysiology is of relevance for many research fields. In particular, research on spine biomechanics may provide important insights on the etiology of diseases affecting spinal tissues. More specifically, spine mechanics and biochemistry can provide crucial information on adverse mechanical loading conditions or unfavorable biochemical environment which can trigger the degeneration of the intervertebral disc, a major structural component of the spine.