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A technical support tool for joint range of motion determination in functional diagnostics - an inter-rater study
Christoph Schiefer1, Thomas Kraus2, Rolf P Ellegast3
1Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstrasse 30, Aachen, 52074 Germany ; Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the German Social Accident Insurance, Alte Heerstrasse 11153757, Sankt Augustin, Germany.
This study evaluated an inertial sensor system for measuring joint range of motion (RoM) in occupational diagnostics. The system improved active RoM reliability but requires further development for passive RoM, especially for the elbow joint.
Area of Science:
- Musculoskeletal diagnostics
- Biomechanics
- Occupational medicine
Background:
- Joint range of motion (RoM) assessment is crucial for musculoskeletal functional diagnostics, particularly in occupational settings.
- Current methods often rely on visual inspection due to time constraints, potentially limiting accuracy.
- An inertial sensor-based system (CUELA) was adapted to support medical examiners in quantifying joint RoM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the measurement tool's performance in functional diagnostics under near-clinical conditions.
- To assess the reliability and objectivity of the inertial sensor system for joint RoM measurements.
- To identify areas for improvement in the measurement tool and methodology.
Main Methods:
- Twenty healthy subjects underwent joint RoM examinations by three blinded physicians using the CUELA system.
- Active RoM was assessed for the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.
- Passive RoM was assessed for the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, and knee, totaling 40 joint angles.
Main Results:
- Most measurements aligned with expected joint RoMs, demonstrating acceptable repeatability.
- Inter-rater reliability for active RoM (Intraclass Correlation Coefficient [ICC]) ranged from 0.79 to 0.95.
- Passive RoM showed high ICC (0.71-0.96) except for elbow and knee extension (ICC: 0.0-0.77).
Conclusions:
- The measurement tool enhanced the reliability and objectivity of active RoM examinations compared to manual assessment.
- Objectivity in passive RoM was limited by external factors, necessitating further development for specific joints like the elbow.
- Modifications to the examination method and calibration procedures could improve passive RoM assessment across the entire body.
