Units

Laboratory for Functional Anatomy

The Laboratory for Functional Anatomy (LAF) is a research group dedicated to human and animal anatomy and embryology.  
The LAF works in close collaboration with the Laboratory of Anatomy Biomechanics and Organogenesis (Faculty of Medicine), which benefits from the same infrastructure. Several research themes are also developed jointly. 

Research in the LAF is structured around complementary themes:  
- biomechanics, modeling and functional assessment  
- macroscopic and microscopic anatomy 
- embryology and teratology  
- forensic medicine and forensic anthropology  
- HOX genes and ovarian function  
- neurobiomechanics

Projetcs

Posture, gait and motion analysis in subjects with low back pain

Chronic low back pain is a symptom often encountered throughout the world, and it has a considerable impact on society. When confronted with it, sufferers may adopt a behaviour that consists of avoiding any movement that could exacerbate the pain. This can lead to a vicious circle of fear, immobility and pain. This has a negative impact on rehabilitation, quality of life and morale. A wide range of therapeutic approaches can be used, including medication, manipulation, massage, physical activity, relaxation, biopsychosocial approaches and surgery, including lumbar arthrodesis, to reduce long-term pain. 
The contribution of functional analysis (statics, posture, movement, walking) to the development, diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of patients suffering from low back pain is promising, but clinical studies supporting its relevance are rare. With our study, we aim to help verify the clinical relevance of functional analysis by studying the static (spinal curvatures, posture) and dynamic (movement and walking) differences that we might encounter in people with lumbar arthrodesis compared with asymptomatic people, and to better understand the role of functional assessment and optimise its use in clinical practice.