Finite element modelling of the human lumbar vertebral column employs
data-processing procedures for study of the linear and nonlinear elast
icity of materials such as are currently used in mechanics or in civil
engineering. Thanks to developments in computer science, requiring a
close collaboration between doctors and engineers, we put forward in t
his preliminary study a linear computerised model of the lumbar column
comprising 4824 meshes and 6813 nodes. By reducing the simplificatory
hypotheses and integrating new parameters, this model as developed is
capable of important clinical applications in surgery and ergonomics.