Purpose: In this study, we presented movable surface models to help medical students understand the multiaxial movements of the hip joint. The secondary objective was to demonstrate a simple method to make movable surface models for other researchers.
Methods: We used 166 surface models of the virtual human, and the commercial software was used for all the processes described in this study. Virtual joints were created for the hip joint of the surface models to simulate realistic movements of the joints. Bone surface models were processed to maintain the original shape of the bones during movement. Muscle surface models were processed to express deformation of the muscle shapes during movement. Next, the muscle and bone surface models were moved over six movements of the hip joint (flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, lateral rotation, and medial rotation). The surface models of these six movements were saved and packaged in a PDF file.
Results: The PDF file enabled users to see the stereoscopic shapes of the bones and muscles of the hip joint and to scrutinize the six movements on the X, Y, and Z axes of the joint.
Conclusion: The movable surface models of the hip joint of this study will be helpful for medical students to learn the multiaxial movements of the hip joint. We expect to develop simulations of other joints that can be used in the education of medical students using the materials and methods described in this study.
Keywords: Hip joint; Muscle contraction; Muscle relaxation; Three-dimensional imaging; Visible human project.