A biomechanical study of normal functional wrist motion

Nineteen normal adults were studied by a uniaxial electrogoniometer to determine the range of wrist motion required to accomplish 15 activities of daily living. Activities for personal care requiring placing the hand at various locations on the body were accomplished by motion of 10 degrees of flexion to 15 degrees of extension. Other necessary activities, such as eating, drinking, using a telephone, and reading, were accomplished by motion of 5 degrees of flexion to 35 degrees of extension. Thus, the optimum functional motion for the wrist to accomplish most activities is from 10 degrees of flexion to 35 degrees of extension. This data helps to provide an objective basis for evaluation of wrist disability, position of arthrodesis, functional motion provided by arthroplasties, and aid in the development of wrist prostheses.