Unravelling the mechanical function of the leg muscles during running

The anatomy of the legs is complex with multiple muscles that are (anatomically) capable of flexing and extending the limb joints. How do these muscles operate mechanically and how is their action co-ordinated to produce stable and economical walking and running? A recent model proposes that the geometry of the limbs and anatomical positioning of the muscles enables muscles to operate sequentially as linkages that minimise the mechanical work demands (Usherwood, 2022: J. Exp. Biol. 225, jeb243254).

The project aims to unravel how muscles function during walking and running, using a bipedal animal model and a range of state-of-the-art physiological techniques such as electromyography, sonomicrometry, and muscle ergometry, in addition to 3D motion analysis to determine limb and body kinematics and kinetics.

This research will enhance our understanding of locomotion by providing detailed insights into muscle function and adaptability in response to various factors like gradient, substrate, and speed, while also informing bio-inspired robot design. Additionally, refining models of movement will advance the 3Rs in research and the development of improved treatments for gait disorders.