Apparatus for Studying the Effects of Compressive and Tensile Bending Strains on Bones

Abstract

An apparatus for applying compressive and tensile loads on bones having a frame with a work surface and a stepper motor. The stepper motor is operably connected to a rotational force to linear force converter which is in turn connected to an articulating arm for applying force to a first pair of pads. A second pair of pads is mounted to the work surface such that a bone may be placed across the second pair of pads such that either end of the bone is supported by the second pair of pads and such that the activation of the stepper motor causes the upper pair of pads to exert compressive bending strain on the lateral surface of the bone and such that the lower pair of pads exert tensile bending strain on the medial surface of the bone. A method of modifying hard tissue morphology is also described.