The Biomechanics subject is based on the application of the fundamentals of physics to the anatomical structure of the human musculoskeletal system, assimilating the human body as a system of levers (bones and joints) to which force (muscles) is applied, generating its movement and thus facilitating its relationship with the environment. The composition and internal structure of the different materials (tissues) that make up the musculoskeletal system are also analyzed, subject to the action of internal (muscular) and external forces, to identify its normal mechanical behavior. The teaching methodology and the choice of content provide students with learning outcomes aimed at carrying out preventive actions for pathologies related to the musculoskeletal system, as well as designing technical aids in those cases in which posture and movement may be altered.
Titular Professors
Not required
The subject aims to develop the ability to analyze human movement through the application of the fundamental principles of mechanics, interpreting the body as a system of levers on which internal and external forces act in relation to the environment. It is also aimed at understanding the mechanical behavior of biological tissues and their response to loads, relating it to injury mechanisms and the design of technological solutions aimed at prevention and functional improvement.
A. Functional biomechanics: 1) Human movement: a) Strength. Production and transmission. Assessment and electromyography b) Articular and functional torque c) Neuromuscular and kinetic activity 2) Static biomechanics. Introduction to posture and analysis of standing, sitting and decubitus 3) Dynamic biomechanics. The gait. The grip 4) Injurious mechanisms. Alterations and pathomechanical risk factors in posture, locomotion, and functional action
B. Tissue biomechanics and repair mechanisms: 1) Connective tissue. bone tissue Cartilaginous tissue. Capsular-ligamentous and synovial tissue. tendinous tissue 2) Skeletal muscle tissue 3) Skin tissue 4) Nervous tissue
The methodology used is based on a model that combines theoretical-lecture classes, theoretical-practical classes and laboratory practices. During the lecture sessions, students will receive explanations about the theoretical bases of the proposed contents and leave open the possibility of specific interactions with the aim of dispelling any doubts that students may have. In the theoretical-practical classes, specific problems and exercises will be posed to reinforce the theoretical bases presented, thus understanding their applicability. These brief activities can only be carried out during face-to-face training with a teacher and in no case will they be announced in advance in the class itself. Finally, the practical laboratory classes will be carried out in small groups and in them the functional action of human gait will be analyzed. A low-cost two-dimensional kinematic laboratory will be used (accessible resources such as a smartphone or a tape measure) and using free software (Kinovea), as well as a sophisticated three-dimensional capture system (Medialab with Vicon system) where kinematic data (Nexus) will be exported to be processed, analyzed and subsequently presented by the students.
The subject is assessed through a continuous assessment system complemented by an individual final test. The final grade is obtained from the combination of activities carried out throughout the semester and a final exam.
The assessment instruments include:
- Individual final exam
- Resolution of exercises and problems
- Laboratory practices
- Oral presentation
- Active participation in sessions, attendance and attitude
To pass the subject, it will be necessary to obtain a minimum grade of 4 out of 10 in the final exam. If this minimum is not achieved, the average will not be made with the rest of the activities and the subject will be considered failed.
Failure to present or hand in any of the assessment activities will imply a grade of 0 in that activity.
The evaluation of learning outcomes is based on qualitative criteria that allow assessing the degree of achievement of the knowledge, skills and competences developed throughout the subject. These criteria are applied transversally to the different assessment activities and guarantee coherence between the training objectives, the teaching methodology and the assessment system.
The following will be assessed:
- Conceptual understanding of biomechanical foundations, including the correct assimilation of physical principles applied to the analysis of human movement and biological systems.
- The ability to apply knowledge to problem solving, especially in contexts specific to health engineering, using mechanical models and appropriate quantitative criteria.
- Rigor and coherence in scientific reasoning, assessing the justification of the procedures used and the consistency in the development of solutions.
- Interpretation of results, including the correct use of units, magnitudes and graphic representations.
- The ability to analyze and interpret experimental data, especially in the context of laboratory practices, as well as the extraction of substantiated conclusions.
- The appropriate use of scientific and technical terminology, both in written and oral communication, ensuring clarity, precision and structure in the presentation of content.
- The ability to synthesize and communicate, especially in oral presentations, valuing the organization of information, the clarity of presentation and the ability to answer questions.
- Active participation and attitude towards learning, including involvement in the proposed activities, collaborative work and responsibility in monitoring the subject.
Neumann DA, Roen Kelly E, Kiefer C, Martens K, Grosz CM. Cinesiología del sistema musculoesquelético. 3ª ed. Padova: Editorial Panamericana-Piccin; 2022.
Puig-Diví A. Biomecánica y patomecánica de la marcha humana. Barcelona: AFEDI; 2015.