This specialization focuses on the biomechanical structure and function of human musculoskeletal system theoretical and experimental studies of the human joints for example, can be invaluable communication, computer access, environmental control, home modification, seating and wheeled mobility and worksite modifications.

The Department of Bioengineering at UIC offers graduate programs at the Master's and Ph.D. level with specialization in the area of Biomechanics. The term "biomechanics," as defined by the American Society of Biomechanics, means the study of structure and function of biological systems via methods of mechanics. The primary focus of the biomechanics program at UIC is placed on the human musculo-skeletal system. Advances in orthopedics, rehabilitation medicine, ergonomics and athletic performance have placed demands for greater sophistication in our understanding of the mechanics of the human musculo-skeletal system. Work in this field involves clinicians, physiologists and engineers. Specific areas of investigation that are pursued currently at UIC are mechanics of human joints, analysis of artificial joints, ergonomics and spine biomechanics.

Mechanics of human joints involve the study of both their motion and forces generated during dynamic activity. Human locomotion studies through gait analyses address the causes and treatment of walking disabilities due to arthritis, neuromuscular diseases and design-related problems associated with artificial joints. Internal forces at the joints are predicted by in-vivo measurements, in-vitro measurements in cadavers, or mathematical models. These studies of human joints are invaluable in addressing a number of clinical problems associated with loss of muscle function and also in the area of artifical joint design.

Osteoarthritis is associated with a degradation of the cartilage. The cause of the degradation of the articular cartilage is not well understood at this time. However, increase load and bone changes have been associated with the disease progression. Current research examines the relationship between disease progression and the applied mechanical loads and biochemical changes in living cells within the cartilage.

When diseases such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or septic arthritis destroy the articular surfaces of human joints, it may become necessary to replace these joints to restore adequate pain-free function. Ongoing research addresses the design of articular surfaces that closely simulate the function of the natural joint involved. The selection of materials to manufacture such an artificial joint that must withstand high loads is also being studied.

The spine is one of the most complex and least understood of all skeletal structures. Many people suffer from various forms of back pain with little or no hope of long-term relief. Mathematical and in-vitro models of the spine are being used to determine the relationship between mechanical loading, injury and back disorders. Dynamic loads at the lower back while lifting loads are being studied by determining the mechanical forces that act on the spine. This information wil be applied to the analysis of various work environments as well as the evaluation of patients with low back pain.

In addition to core UIC bioengineering faculty, adjunct bioengineering faculty with primary appointments at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center, Chicago and the VA Medical Center at Hines, IL have wide experience in research and teaching expertise in the field of biomechanics. These faculty span a wide range of biomechanic specialties including human locomotion, modeling of human joints including spine, biomechanic instrumentation, implant biomaterials and ergonomics.

Biomechanics Faculty List