MECHANICAL LOADING AND AGING OF A HUMAN AXIAL SYSTEM: IDENTIFICATION OF CONNECTIVE TISSUES CHANGES BY THE MEANS OF THE TVS METHOD
Abstract
Consequences of the aging process of the organism as well as its loading are changes of rheological properties of biological tissues. It is necessary to utilize specific detection and mathematical methods for their quantification.
The objective is to create a relevant method of detection of changes of properties of biological tissues the axial system consists of. We will make use of a TVS (Transfer Vibration through Spine) method, which is based on a progression speed of pressure and shear waves, from which the mechanical properties of materials can be backtracked.There are 3 case records presented, showing the possibilities of TVS method usage for identification and classification of axial system changes in case of a difference between a young and an aging organism during a monotonous vibration load of driving a car and a training load of modern gymnasts.
Related to both the age and the applied load the changes of spine corset elastic properties are apparent. With a growing amplitude of a resonance frequency the spine is increasingly capable of transmitting the mechanical load.
Both the elastic constant value and the thickness of ligamentous corset around the spine are higher. The TVS method can be used for a classification and prevention of aging consequences as well as a regulation of extreme motion regimes.
Furthermore it can be used for assessment of axial system mechanical properties among the specific groups of people as well as for objectification of operation and therapeutic interventions etc.