Robotically Controlled Variation of the Instantaneous Center of Rotation: The Effects on Kinetics and Kinematics of Cervical Spine

Cervical spine loads are complex, with different head and neck movements producing different spine loading conditions. Imagine performing a chin tuck, (this simple action predominantly utilizes mostly upper cervical segments), or stretching out your neck to look down over something (this action requires the utilization of lower level cervical segments). The effect in both cases is neck flexion, but cervical spine loads may vary greatly. With a trend towards increasing fidelity and in vivo applicability of in vitro simulations [1], this study aimed to provide a novel biomechanical assessment of the influence of varying the location of the regional Instantaneous Center of Rotation (ICR) on the kinetics and kinematics of the cervical spine.