title: In vivo measurement of lower back deformations with Fourier-transform profilometry.
abstract: Through the variation of their cross sections, the in vivo response of lower back muscles to low loading in an upright seated posture is explored by the Fourier-transform profilometry technique. The maximization of its sensitivity allows us to reach an adequate resolution for the evaluation of low-back displacements. Refinements of the fringe pattern analysis permit the minimization of errors. The experiments show an asymmetric distribution of the displacement during head rotation movements. Significant contribution of the lower back to grasping exertions is also observed. These results are thought to be useful for early defect detection in the lower back.
authors.affiliation: Laboratoire d'Optique P.M. Duffieux, Institute of Microtechniques of Franche-Comté, Université de Franche-Comté, Route de Gray, Besançon F-25030, France. hanafia_j@yahoo.ca
authors.forename: Abdelmalek
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Hanafi
authors.forename: Tijani
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Gharbi
authors.forename: Jean-Yves
authors.initials: JY
authors.lastname: Cornu
mesh_terms: D019412:Anatomy, Cross-Sectional / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D001415:Back / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D012031:Refractometry / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D017550:Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*