Personalized Biomechanic Models: Factors Affecting Shoulder Motion

The design and development of personalized prosthetics or rehabilitation treatments of extremities disorders relies on accurate mathematical models. The effect of various parameters on shoulder joint mobility was investigated in order to develop more accurate, adaptive models. Active and passive abduction at the frontal plane and active and passive flexion at the sagittal plane were studied on two different age groups. Results showed statistically significant differences in shoulder movement between the two groups. The range of movement decreased considerably in older volunteers while no significant differences were observed within the same age group. Active and passive movements differed significantly while flexion was easier to perform than abduction. Movement was independent of weight, height, BMI, gender, and handedness. Exercise had a significant positive impact on the elderly and may counterbalance age effects. Age and exercise parameters should be included in prosthetics modeling and rehabilitation to improve and personalize care.