Tracking Upper Limb Motion via Wearable Solutions: Systematic Review of Research From 2011 to 2023

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Human Motion Analysis

Background:

• Wearable solutions for tracking upper limb motion are increasingly researched for human movement monitoring.
• These systems are primarily explored for rehabilitation applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review wearable systems for upper limb motion tracking.
• To investigate their application in clinical and rehabilitation settings.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search of 4 databases (ACM, IEEE, PubMed, ScienceDirect) identified 27 relevant studies from 2011-2023.
• Studies focused on wearable devices for upper limb motion/posture tracking in clinical or rehabilitation contexts, excluding exoskeletons and activity recognition.

Main Results:

• The review included 27 studies (439 participants) categorized into clinical motion tracking (56%) and rehabilitation (44%).
• Inertial measurement units and smart textiles were the predominant technologies, often using Velcro straps for attachment.
• Visual feedback enhanced user motivation, though limitations in sensor positioning, calibration, battery life, and a lack of clinical efficacy data persist.

Conclusions:

• Wearable monitoring systems offer diverse solutions for upper limb motion tracking and rehabilitation.
• The review highlights system efficacy, wearability, feasibility, and processing techniques.
• Future research should address current limitations to advance wearable system development for improved upper limb function monitoring.