Welcome to the Institute for Biomechanics (IfB)

 

Mission Statement

Modern biomechanical investigations of the human body include the mechanics of the musculo-skeletal system and movement control from a macroscopic (organs) level down to a microscopic (cells) level, the basic elements of life and growth.

Many diseases like osteoporosis, arthritis, or muscle atrophy lead to reduced strength of the tissues concerned. At risk are the elderly and/or immobilized people due to age, illness, or injury and astronauts in a microgravity environment. To be able to monitor this risk in an early stage of development and to quantify optimal treatment and rehabilitation results is crucial for the welfare of society.

At our Institute we focus on the "musculo-skeletal system of the human body" and we are interested in the material properties of mammalian tissue. To quantify changes and adaptations of these materials through ontogenesis (from birth to death), and the plasticity (adaptation to mechanical demands) of these materials are of prime interest. In contrast to inorganic materials, biological tissue can change its mechanical properties to fulfill the requirements of work, leisure, and even in peak performance sports activities.

Organization

The Institute for Biomechanics is a multidisciplinary research unit dedicated to the biomechanical investigation of the human body. It currently consists of three professorships covering different areas of musculo-skeletal biomechanics.