The second stiffest axis of a beam-column: implications for cervical spine trauma

The authors show the existence of a second stiffest axis of a homogeneous, isotropic beam-column. The allowable force along the second stiffest axis to cause either buckling or compression failure is delineated. The ratio of the allowable forces imposed on the second and first stiffest axes is established. The stiffness ratio of the second and first stiffest axes is also found. The safe load region for all directions of action of the force is derived. The implications of the idealized model for cervical trauma are delineated.<>