Abstract
The determination of head and neck biomechanics is one of the keys for deep understanding of impairments in neck function and cervical spine pathologies. Finite element models are a valuable tool to perform parametric studies. In this study, we aim to investigate the effect of a 40N head weight on the biomechanics of the head and neck complex under flexion extension moments. The loading is applied to the centre of mass of the head and the first thoracic vertebra is fixed. Our predictions show that the kinematics and the load distribution at the facet joints were altered significantly with considering of the head weight under the flexion and extension movements. Our investigations indicate the substantial role of the head weight on the biomechanical behavior of the cervical spine and suggest its consideration in comparing the models predictions with the measurements.