Finite element applications in human cervical spine modeling.

The authors present a comprehensive state-of-the-art and critical review of the finite element models of the human cervical spine. They also focused on the developments in model construction (geometry generation), constitutive law (material property) identification, loading and boundary condition details, and validation, the most important phase. A data base of available experimental sources is also provided, which can be used by the modeler for validating the finite element model. The potential developments in finite element modeling of the human cervical spine are discussed.