3D strain map of axially loaded mouse tibia: a numerical analysis validated by experimental measurements

A combined experimental/numerical study was performed to calculate the zone of highest strain in a rat tibia loaded axially. This study is motivated by the fact that the bone remodeling analysis in this in vivo rat model should be performed at the zone of highest mechanical stimulus to maximize the measured effects. Accordingly, it is proposed that quantification of bone remodeling should be performed at the tibial crest and at the distal diaphysis. The numerical model could also be used to furnish a more subtle analysis as a precise correlation between local strain and local biological response can be obtained with the experimentally validated numerical model.