Curvature-induced stiffening of the human foot
Using modeling and cadaveric measurements, I showed that transverse curvature stiffens the human foot through bending-stretching coupling.
Associate Research Scientist
Venkadesan Lab
Yale University
Biomechanics Muscle and Connective Tissue Physiology
I am broadly interested in the influence of elastic connective tissues on the energetics and mechanics of movement. Elastic connective tissues play a vital role in transmitting dynamic force and length changes from muscle to the skeleton and have a profound influence on muscle mechanics and energetics. Stretchy connective tissues including tendons, aponeuroses, and fascia are found throughout the body and are in close association with muscles. While the many functions of tendon are well described, only recently have we begun to understand the complex strain patterns in planar, sheet-like connective tissues such as fascia and aponeurosis. Many muscles in the limbs are attached to or enveloped by fascia, and whole muscle compartments are often covered in fascia. However, whether aponeuroses and fascia serve a function beyond just connecting and dividing structures in the musculoskeletal system is not well understood. My research combines anatomical studies, musculoskeletal models, and experimental animal models of connective tissue and muscle physiology to answer questions about how planar connective tissues function in the body and how they influence the forces and length changes transmitted from muscle.
Using modeling and cadaveric measurements, I showed that transverse curvature stiffens the human foot through bending-stretching coupling.
I performed detailed muscle measurements to explore muscle gearing and its dynamic modulation.
I used a goat model to perform in vivo tests of whether the goat fascia lata stores and recovers elastic energy.
I investigated the ITB’s role in locomotion and determined that the ITB elastically stores and recovers elastic energy during walking and running.
Using chimpanzees as a comparison to humans, I found that the human ITB potentially stores up to 15 to 20 times more elastic energy than the chimpanzee fascia lata.
I used in vivo measures of muscle fiber length change, muscle force and muscle activity in rat triceps surae muscles to explore how muscle mechanics are modulated with gait and grade.
My complete CV is available here: Carolyn_Eng_CV.pdf
Carolyn Eng
email: carolyn.eng@yale.edu