A mechanical model and stress-strain response of the biceps brachii under static load

Abstract

Muscle contraction is a complex phenomenon that begins with chemical processes, continues physiologically, and leads to the production of force. Although the production of force in the muscles depends on factors such as temperature, age, gender, race, but the most important factor is the external load applied to the muscle. Determining the effects of increased load on muscle mechanics is of particular importance for planning exercise activities and rehabilitation processes. In this study, the effects of different external forces on the stress and pressure behavior of the muscle were examined on a simplified model of the biceps. Accordingly, a finite element model of the biceps brachii muscle fiber was constructed. The application of different static loads (2.5 – 100 N) on both the proximal tendon (one-directional) and the proximal and distal tendon (bidirectional) together were investigated. According to the results, it was found that the external force applied in both directions causes a significant increase in displacement behavior and stress.