Abstract
The intra-articular contact characteristics of the diarthrodial joints have been measured by using Fuji pressure sensitive films3,6,7,10 and a Tekscan sensor system5. Direct measurement can only provide resultant contact information. Indirect contact estimation methods, such as mathematical modeling or a stereophotogramametric method can be used to estimate contact kinematics on each articulating surface1,9. However, indirect estimation methods are often based on simplified geometry due to limited accuracy or simplification, resulting in erroneous contact estimation. The objective of this study was to quantify the intra articular contact area and shape of the glenohumeral joint determined by surface reconstruction. The results showed that the contact estimation method using surface reconstruction was in good agreement with the results of Tekscan measurement (accuracy ≤ 5.3% and repeatability ≥ 11.2%). The contact estimation method may provide a valuable avenue for understanding contact kinematics in human diarthrodial joints.