Finite element methods in spine biomechanics research.

The finite element method has been used in spine biomechanics research for nearly a quarter of a century. Recent developments have made it possible to simulate a variety of clinically relevant situations in an increasingly realistic manner, elevating the finite element method into a fully complementary partnership with experimental approaches for the investigation of clinical problems in the spine. These new developments are presented in a historical context to evaluate their potential impact on future spine biomechanics research.