A reanalysis of spinal motion during vibration

Abstract

Calibrated film of the motion of the lumbar spine during vibration was reanalysed, making use of a number of computer based techniques to improve accuracy and reduce measurement noise. The results demonstrated resonant behaviour at about 4 Hz and indicated that at vibration levels of the order of 1 m/s2 there exists bending of the order of 1° (peak to peak) between adjacent vertebrae in the lumbar spine. The bending is complex and involves phase differences along the spine and possibly a rocking motion of the pelvis.