Finite element parameter-analysis of age-related degenerations of components of lumbar spine segments in compression

3D finite element parameter analysis of the degeneration-sensitivity of the material properties of the components of lumbar spinal motion segments is presented for physiologic compression load. The aim was to determine that material behaviour which dominantly determines the mechanical behaviour of the aging spine. Systematic numerical simulation was executed by using a finite element model validated by experimental results for both tension and compression. It was concluded that to keep the hydrostatic compression state of nucleus is the most important factor to maintain the stability of lumbar segments in the first period of aging process. DOI: 10.17489/biohun/2013/1/2