Scott L. Delp, Ph.D.
Departments of Mechanical Engineering
and Functional Restoration
Stanford University
The outcomes of surgeries performed to correct movement abnormalities are unpredictable and sometimes unsuccessful. This problem exists because the biomechanical causes of the abnormal movement patterns are unclear and the effects of common surgical treatments are not understood. I believe that the design of improved treatments will proceed more effectively if computer models are developed that help explain the underlying causes of movement abnormalities and predict the functional consequences of surgical interventions. This presentation will describe a range of computer simulations, from simple to complex, which provide insights into the mechanics of common movement abnormality among persons with cerebral palsy.