Determining optimal loading frequencies for bone formation on joints using Finite Element Methods

Osteoporosis has been widely known as a reoccurring issue with the increase of age. By understanding key mechanical properties of bone, researchers can better understand methods to induce bone growth as a possible method for osteoporosis reversal. This study uses image modeling to characterize the natural frequency of normal bone by using Finite Element Methods (FEM). Results indicate that the natural frequency for a mouse femur sample is 23.574 Hz (bending mode 1) along with a natural frequency of 12.085 Hz (bending mode 1) for a mouse tibia sample. Ultimately, this data may be used as target loading frequencies for joint loading to optimally enhance bone growth.