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Sensor acquired reachable workspace in the elderly population: A cross-sectional observational study.
Vicky Chan1, Richard Thai1, Revik Vartanian1
1University of California at Irvine School of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Irvine, CA, USA.
Medicine
|July 29, 2022
Summary
A novel sensor-based reachable workspace (RSA) accurately assesses upper extremity range of motion (ROM) decline in older adults. This method shows strong reliability and correlates with traditional goniometer measurements, offering a promising clinical tool.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Aging leads to reduced upper extremity range of motion (ROM), impacting daily activities.
- Goniometer measurement is the standard for quantifying shoulder ROM.
- Objective and quantitative assessment of age-related ROM decline is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a sensor-acquired reachable workspace (RSA) for assessing shoulder ROM decline in the elderly.
- To compare RSA measurements with traditional goniometer measurements.
- To evaluate the correlation and reliability of RSA in an elderly population.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional observational study included 61 healthy elderly subjects (≥ 65 years) and 39 younger subjects (20-64 years).
- A Kinect motion capture camera measured the reachable workspace (RSA) in a seated position, normalized to arm length.
- RSA was compared to active ROM measurements (shoulder flexion and abduction) using a goniometer.
Main Results:
- Total RSA demonstrated moderate to strong correlations with goniometer measurements for both dominant and nondominant arms.
- Elderly subjects showed significantly reduced total RSA compared to younger subjects, particularly in the upper lateral quadrant.
- Test-retest reliability for total RSA was strong (ICC > 0.762).
Conclusions:
- Sensor-acquired reachable workspace (RSA) is a reliable and valid tool for assessing shoulder ROM.
- RSA provides a quantitative and detailed assessment of age-related upper extremity ROM decline.
- RSA shows promise as a simple, quick clinical tool for evaluating elderly populations.
