title: Dynamic properties of soft tissues and their interface with materials.
abstract: Treatment for the human hand involves application of forces and torques to the skeletal system. These are applied through the soft tissues, frequently using protective materials such as splints and other static and dynamic therapeutic orthoses. A view of soft tissues as polymeric materials provides a more universal approach. The role of shear in soft tissues is discussed, as well as the response of the tissues of the hand to the mechanical challenges of treatment. A connection between the underlying concepts presented is provided and how this influences clinical treatment is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Mechanical Engineering Department, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque 87131, USA.
authors.forename: D E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Thompson
mesh_terms: D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D003094:Collagen / Q000378:metabolism; D003238:Connective Tissue / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D004548:Elasticity; D004549:Elastin / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007596:Joints / Q000502:physiology; D011108:Polymers; D013314:Stress, Mechanical; D014783:Viscosity
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D011108:Polymers; D003094:Collagen; D004549:Elastin