Muscle Physiology and Modeling

Because they are so important for survival, muscles have evolved many complex features that enhance their strength, speed, efficiency and controllability. The model presented here consists of quantitative functions that represent each of the anatomical structures and physiological processes that underlie such features in typical mammalian skeletal muscles. These include the processes of recruitment, activation, active and passive force generation and energy consumption for the full physiological range of kinematics for both slowand fast-twitch motor units. By selecting appropriate parameters, the model can be made to represent any specific normal or pathological muscle.