Computer modelling of exogenous magnetic field and mechanical loading modulated lacunar-canalicular fluid dynamics in bone

Reduction in mechanical stimulus due to space weightlessness, ageing and diseases can result in an imbalance between the remodelling processes, eventually leading to bone fracture. Bone reshapes their structure through physiological activities that is, bone modelling and bone remodelling to maintain its integrity and function. In vivo studies have reported that exogenous mechanical loading in the presence of a magnetic field on bone insinuates the remodelling process and enhances the fluid-induced shear stress inside the canaliculus, thus responsible for promoting new bone formation. Therefore, the present study develops a computer model to compute the mechanical loading-induced fluid flow in a complex canalicular channel having irregular wall and cell process in the presence of an exogenous magnetic field. The outcomes of the present study indicate that the loading frequency amplifies the fluid flow and wall shear stress at lower permeability. Moreover, the effect of non-dimensional frequency, Hartmann number and permeability on the fluid motion, shear stress and streamlines are examined. The result of this study encourages the use of an exogenous magnetic field alongside the mechanical loading to accelerate the fluid induced wall shear stress in the case of osteoporosis.