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This article describes and explains the moment arm vector (MAV) concept, uses the concept for the quantitative classification of hip muscles according to action, and applies the findings to selected clinical problems. A three-dimensional, straight-line model of hip musculature was used. Measurements made on a matched, dry bone specimen provided muscle attachment point location data for the model. Straight lines of muscle action between attachment sites were simulated for a variety of hip configurations during simple hip motions in three principal anatomical planes. We used the MAV concept to identify the three contributions of a muscle (flexion-extension, abduction-adduction, and internal-external rotation) tending to rotate the thigh segment relative to the pelvis. Muscles were classified according to their action or turning effect at 0, 40, and 90 degrees of hip flexion. Certain muscles exhibited significant changes in their action during these simple motions. Model results were verified using an articulated, dry bone specimen with elastic strings stretched between muscle attachment sites. Based on this geometrical model, a "pathological posture" of hip flexion, adduction, and internal rotation was identified, which is a posture prevalent in spastic, brain damaged patients.

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The selection of body segment parameters (BSPs) is a difficult yet essential task in many biomechanical studies. The methods used to date-cadaver, reaction board, mathematical modeling, gamma scanning, and kinematics-all have a number of drawbacks. The purpose of the present paper is to present an alternative method, based on kinematic data and optimization theory, for selecting BSPs. The design variables are the BSPs and the objective function to be minimized is based on the difference between calculated and measured distal extremity kinetics, while the equality constraints are based on Newtonian principles as well as bilateral symmetry of the BSPs. Three different activities are used to generate "optimal" sets of BSPs and these values are different, but not markedly so, from cadaver values. Further detailed investigation appears warranted.

The five ligaments studied act with a symphonic harmony to provide stability to the knee. The SMCL was of major importance in medial knee stability. The other ligament which provided the most dramatic contribution to knee stability was the PC. It was the only ligament which when sectioned resulted in a significant posterior anterior drawer instability and on three occasions produced a jerk test.