A 20-Year Perspective on the Mechanical Properties of Trabecular Bone

We have reviewed highlights of the research in trabecular bone biomechanics performed over the past 20 years. Results from numerous studies have shown that trabecular bone is an extremely heterogeneous material--modulus can vary 100-fold even within the same metaphysis--with varying degrees of anisotropy. Strictly speaking, descriptions of the mechanical properties of trabecular bone should therefore be accompanied by specification of factors...