Finite Element Analysis of Head-neck Kinematics Under Rear-end Impact Conditions

In current study, a detailed three-dimensional C0-C7 FE model of the whole head-neck complex developed previously was modified to include T1 vertebra. Rear impact accelerations of different conditions were applied to Tl inferior surface to validate the simulated variations of the intervertebral segmental rotations of the cervical spine. The simulated kinematics of the head-neck complex showed relatively good agreement with the experimental data. Under rear impact, the whole C0-T1 structure formed a S-shaped curvature with flexion at the upper levels and extension at the lower levels at early stage after impact, during which the lower cervical levels might experience hyperextensions. The current model was identified to be available for human neck injury study.