We present an extension of fiber bundle models considering that failed fibers still carry a fraction 0 < or = alpha < or = 1 of their failure load. The value of alpha interpolates between the perfectly brittle failure (alpha = 0) and perfectly plastic behavior (alpha = 1) of fibers. We show that the finite load bearing capacity of broken fibers has a substantial effect on the failure process of...

OBJECTIVES Asymmetrical posture during static stance has been identified as a common problem in persons with hemiplegia. This study examined the effect of an activity-based therapy regimen on symmetric weight bearing and midline position of center of gravity (COG) in three adult subjects with hemiplegia. METHOD An ABAB single-subject design was used. The intervention program, including sandin...

Quantitative analyses of the Scarf/Z and inverted Scarf/Z bunionectomy osteotomy procedures utilizing two-screw fixation were performed in fresh cadaveric specimens. Eighteen trials (nine matched pair feet) were used for direct comparison. Ultimate strength and failure areas were examined. Trial results revealed a strong statistically significant positive effect. The inverted Z approach was fou...

This study assessed the reliability of measurements made by four physical therapists on healthy subject gait data recorded from the Krusen limb load monitor. The five components of step (stance time, time up, time to second peak, and force at the first and second peaks) were analyzed. Six components contributing to gait (ambulation time; velocity; cadence; average swing phase duration, left low...

After lower-extremity orthopedic trauma and surgery, patients are often advised to restrict weight bearing on the affected limb. Conventional training methods are not effective at enabling patients to comply with recommendations for partial weight bearing. The current study assessed a novel method of using real-time haptic (vibratory/vibrotactile) biofeedback to improve compliance with instruct...

PURPOSE The aim of the present conventional observational study was to compare the clinical outcomes of initial non-weight-bearing therapy and conventional relative rest therapy among elderly patients with clinical vertebral fractures. METHODS In total, 196 consecutive patients with clinical vertebral fractures (mean age: 78 years) who were hospitalized for treatment between January 1999 and ...

The paw pads of dogs and cats are specialized skin structures that provide cushioned, durable, weight-bearing surfaces. Otherwise normal limbs may be rendered useless when pad tissue is lost because of trauma or tumor resection. This article reviews previously described reconstructive techniques involving the movement of pad tissue into weight-bearing defects. In addition, a case series of sing...