Does Trans-radial Longitudinal Compression Influence Myoelectric Control?

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Prosthetics and Orthotics
• Rehabilitation Technology

Background:

• Current trans-radial prosthetic sockets are not optimized for myoelectric control.
• Improved socket designs, like longitudinal compression sockets, offer enhanced biomechanical stability.
• The impact of limb stabilization on myoelectric control remains under-investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of longitudinal compression socket configurations on myoelectric control.
• To assess the influence of compression on muscle pressure and fatigue during prosthetic use.

Main Methods:

• Twelve able-bodied participants tested a longitudinal compression socket simulator in compressed, relief, and uncompressed states.
• Participants performed single-channel myoelectric target tracking and high-intensity grasping tasks.
• Evaluated tracking accuracy, pressure distribution, and limb fatigue rates across configurations.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in tracking accuracy or fatigue rates were found between compression configurations.
• The compressed configuration successfully maintained pressure on opposing sides of the socket during muscle contractions.

Conclusions:

• Longitudinal compression does not impede single-channel EMG control or improve fatigue resistance.
• Longitudinal compression sockets show promise for enhancing multi-channel EMG control reliability by ensuring consistent pressure during muscle activation.