Bone Phys & Biomech

This course is concerned with the normal mechanical and biological functions of bone, as well as the clinical problems in metabolic bone disease and orthopaedic treatment. Specific topics will examine how bone cells produce matrix material and structure, restructure it during life to optimize bone mechanical function, and then maintain the material vs. structural properties throughout life. Bone organ, tissue and cellular-molecular level processes will be examined as integrated hierarchical systems contributing to mechanical function, presented from lectures, case studies and presentations of critical literature identifying central principles in bone biomechanics. Discussions will seek to identify fundamental questions and directions for future research. 3 hr./wk.; 3 cr.