Hello everyone,
We are currently working on a problem involving the study of kinematics and kinetics of the lower extremities during running. The AnyBody template we are using for this purpose is the MOCAP driven gait model (C3D input), with the default tibia replaced by a subject-specific tibia obtained from CT images. The input data that we use to drive this model comprises kinematic data from 42 markers on the running subject's body.
We are also interested in developing a similar workflow for the prediction of kinematics and kinetics at the metatarsals using subject-specific metatarsals. In the MOCAP driven gait model mentioned in the previous paragraph, the foot is simply modeled as one 'unit' and there is no articulation between the various foot bones (for example, between the metatarsals and phalanges). There also doesn't seem to be an option to output JRFs at the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints. This will prove severely restrictive to detailed metatarsal analysis, as these JRFs and MTP articulation will be crucial. We were wondering if you could provide any suggestions as to how we can go about modifying this MOCAP model for subject-specific metatarsal analysis - would it be possible to replace the foot 'unit' in the model with a more detailed foot model with articulated joints? Would this give us the ability to output JRFs at the MTP joints?
There is also another detailed foot model template available in AnyBody - Freeposturefoot_GMfoot. This foot model has articulated joints and the various foot bones are individually selectable. However, this template does not (in its default state) have the functionality to be driven by C3D motion capture data like the previously mentioned MOCAP drive gait model. Would it be feasible to incorporate this C3D functionality in this detailed foot model, rather than trying to modify the foot 'unit' in the MOCAP driven gait model? We are not sure which approach would be more feasible, any guidance on this would be appreciated.
Finally, the motion capture data that we used for the tibial analysis only comprises kinematic data from 5 markers, as far as the foot is concerned. We are concerned that this input data may not be sufficient for detailed metatarsal analysis - would we need to place sensors (e.g., plantar pressure sensor and markers) at more locations on the foot? We would greatly appreciate any guidance regarding what kind of kinematic or kinetic input data would be required for this detailed subject-specific metatarsal analysis. Thank you for your time.