2025 Undergraduate Research Showcase
Development of an Infant Head-Neck Musculoskeletal Model to Elucidate Asphyxia Risk
Document Type
Student Presentation
Presentation Date
4-15-2025
Faculty Sponsor
Dr. Erin Mannen and Dr. Clare Fitzpatrick
Abstract
Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID), often associated with asphyxia, may be linked to infant postures such as head-neck flexion. This study presents a novel infant head-neck musculoskeletal model developed in OpenSim to quantify muscle forces required during chin-to-chest motion. Using motion capture data from a surrogate doll and scaled anatomical data from infant CT scans, the model simulates head-neck flexion and extension. Static optimization reveals higher-than-expected muscle forces, emphasizing the need for accurate scaling to infant morphology. The validated model aims to inform safer infant product designs and posture management to reduce asphyxia risk.
Recommended Citation
Bossert, Andrew; Mannen, Erin; Myers, Casey; and Fitzpatrick, Clare, "Development of an Infant Head-Neck Musculoskeletal Model to Elucidate Asphyxia Risk" (2025). 2025 Undergraduate Research Showcase. 142.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/under_showcase_2025/142