ISOFIT: a model-based method to measure muscle-tendon properties simultaneously

Biomech Model Mechanobiol. 2005 Aug;4(1):10-9. doi: 10.1007/s10237-005-0068-9. Epub 2005 May 14.

Abstract

Estimation of muscle parameters specifying force-length and force-velocity behavior requires in general a large number of sophisticated experiments often including a combination of isometric, isokinetic, isotonic, and quick-release experiments. This study validates a simpler method (ISOFIT) to determine muscle properties by fitting a Hill-type muscle model to a set of isovelocity data. Muscle properties resulting from the ISOFIT method agreed well with muscle properties determined separately in in vitro measurements using frog semitendinosus muscles. The force-length curve was described well by the results of the model. The force-velocity curve resulting from the model coincided with the experimentally determined curve above approximately 20% of maximum isometric force (correlation coefficient R>0.99). At lower forces and thus higher velocities the predicted curve underestimated velocity. The stiffness of the series elastic component determined with direct experiments was approximately 10% lower than that determined by the ISOFIT method. Use of the ISOFIT method can decrease experimental time up to 80% and reduce potential changes in muscle parameters due to fatigue.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Animals
  • Computer Simulation
  • Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted / methods
  • Elasticity
  • Models, Biological*
  • Muscle Contraction / physiology*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology*
  • Rana pipiens
  • Rats
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Tendons / physiology*