A Three-Dimensional Biomechanical Analysis of the Cat Ankle Joint Complex: I. Active and Passive Postural Mechanics

Muscle actions are often defined with respect to a single anatomical reference plane based on a “predominant” functional activity. Yet animals must control posture and movement within a three-dimensional (3-D) environment, exerting control over more than one reference plane when responding to a 3-D array of perturbing forces. Consequently, enhanced knowledge concerning the 3-D torque capabilities of certain appendicular muscles might provide for greater understanding of the biomechanical basis for motor control. We propose that the cat postural control mechanism utilizes the inherent 3-D mechanical actions of ankle flexors and extensors to maintain extra-saggital joint stiffness. We used a 6 degree-of-freedom force-moment sensor to assess the effect of ankle joint orientation on the 3-D nature of isometric joint torques evoked by electrical stimulation of muscles crossing the AJC in the deeply anesthetized cat. An orthogonal axis system was established at the designated ankle rotation center, such that pi...