Consistency among musculoskeletal model moment arms 1

INTRODUCTION Musculoskeletal simulation software packages and model repositories have broadened the user base able to perform musculoskeletal analysis and have facilitated in the sharing and distribution of musculoskeletal models. As musculoskeletal modeling continues to become more utilized as an engineering tool, the consistency in results derived from different models and simulation software is becoming more critical. Understanding the absolute and potential trend differences that may result as a function of model selection is essential, especially considering users rarely have the opportunity to duplicate a particular analysis with different generic models or software. The purpose of this study was to compare eight musculoskeletal models, from three modeling packages, and evaluate differences in muscle moment arm lengths.