Lateral differences of the forearm range of motion

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Orthopedics
• Medical Instrumentation

Background:

• Malunion of distal radius fractures frequently leads to reduced range of motion.
• Current assessments often assume equal range of motion between forearms, an assumption lacking robust evidence.
• Quantifying inter-forearm range of motion differences is crucial for accurate clinical evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a methodology for measuring forearm range of motion using inertial measurement units (IMUs).
• To compare forearm range of motion between dominant and non-dominant limbs in a control group.
• To establish normative data for forearm rotational motion differences to improve malunion assessment.

Main Methods:

• Utilized inertial measurement units (IMUs) to capture forearm rotational motion.
• Measured range of motion in both forearms of healthy participants (control group).
• Analyzed and compared pronation and supination differences between dominant and non-dominant limbs.

Main Results:

• Forearm rotational motion is significantly greater in the dominant forearm.
• Supination consistently exceeds pronation in both limbs, with a more pronounced difference in the dominant forearm.
• Pronation and supination magnitudes are closer in the non-dominant forearm compared to the dominant one.

Conclusions:

• Established normative differences in forearm range of motion between dominant and non-dominant limbs.
• The findings provide essential data for a more precise evaluation of forearm motion deficits post-malunion or other pathologies.
• Highlights the inadequacy of assuming symmetrical forearm motion in clinical assessments.