Biomechanics is the mechanical study of the biological movements of the human body. It consists in studying the functions and properties of motion, by applying the laws of mechanics.

Biomechanics comes from biology (science of the living) and mechanics (physical science of studying the movement, deformations or equilibrium states of physical systems). Biomechanics consists of applying the laws of mechanics to problems of biology, physiology and medicine. It is the physiology of movement, that is, the study of the functions and properties of movement in the human body. More precisely, it is the study of movement from the properties of muscles, the skeleton to the movements of body segments under the effect of the activation of muscles and the environment. Biomechanics makes it possible to describe the structural elements of the organism involved in movement and to define all the forces involved in them.

Biomechanics can be used in different disciplines:

• in sport: the sports trainer uses biomechanics to measure and research how to develop the gestural techniques of his athletes. It allows him to know the best way to achieve a movement for greater efficiency and the possible constraints to avoid accidents. Understanding the gesture helps improve performance and optimize equipment;
• in design / robotics: the study of the body to adapt new technologies to it makes it possible to design equipment (work desks, cars, etc.) adapted to human movement and to optimize existing tools. In robotics, biomechanics is of great importance to create movement;
• In medicine: biomechanics makes it possible to better understand certain pathologies, to optimize treatments, to treat pathologies and to design prostheses. The medical biomechanical engineer participates in the design, modeling and development of medical solutions that best meet the needs of surgeons and therefore of patients. Biomechanics is also one of the possible specialties of osteopaths. The osteopath specializing in biomechanics listens to the patient’s body and works only with his hands. It treats various reversible pathologies (joints, muscles, but also breathing, digestion, etc.) depending on the pain expressed by the patient. The osteopathy consultation consists of taking a patient’s report, collecting his history and taking it into account, having his pain assessed and manipulating him to relieve him in the short or long term.

Biomechanical engineer

Engineering training consists of five years of study after the baccalaureate. Integration into an engineering school takes place directly after the baccalaureate or after a two-year preparatory class. It is then possible during the course of studies to specialize in biomechanics. The “Engineering & Health” specialization is accessible from the fourth year of studies. It spans two academic years and is made up of two academic semesters and two internship semesters. The Biomechanics course allows future engineers in biomechanics to design prostheses, orthoses and patient-robots. The training includes knowledge of the medical world (human body system, physiology, pathologies, medical robotics, medical imaging, health law, medical ethics).

Biomechanical osteopath

The first step is to study osteopathy. These last five years in osteopathic school to obtain the osteopathic diploma (DO). The profession of biomechanic is accessible after studying osteopathy. It is also possible to go through medical studies and specialize in osteopathy with an interuniversity diploma (DIU) in two years. To exercise this profession in good conditions, it is necessary to have a sense of contact and listening, as well as a perfect knowledge of the body and pathologies.

Osteopathy is first recognized for its ability to relieve ailments and disorders of the musculoskeletal system, such as back pain. It can be both acute problems such as sprains, sports injuries; or chronic such as herniated discs, low back pain, joint pain, perinatal pain, scoliosis and tendonitis. Osteopathy can also relieve pain caused by working postures (prolonged work at the computer for example).

It can also relieve or treat pain, circulatory disorders, transit problems, gynecological pains and dysfunctions, respiratory problems, mental health problems such as depressive states, stress, anxiety or even head disorders. sleep.

Osteopathy can also be used in the absence of particular problem, in prevention, in particular in contexts of pregnancy and for newborns.

The biomechanical engineer, meanwhile, works in collaboration with doctors to develop new prostheses and other biotechnologies to make life easier for patients.

As with any healthcare professional, the best way to prepare for your visit is to make a list of your issues and questions so that you don’t forget anything on D-Day.