Using the Exos Handmaster to measure digital range of motion: reliability and validity

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Traditional goniometry for digital range of motion (ROM) has limited correlation with actual hand function and task performance.
• Despite limitations, goniometry remains a standard for assessing work return capacity and permanent functional impairment.
• A more functionally representative assessment method is needed for clinicians, patients, employers, and payers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical feasibility of the Exos Handmaster, an instrumented exoskeleton, for measuring digital joint ROM.
• To assess the reliability and validity of the Exos Handmaster for hand joint assessment.

Main Methods:

• Modifications were made to the Exos Handmaster's fixation technique and calibration procedures.
• The instrumented exoskeleton was used to measure angular joint rotation of metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and interphalangeal (IP) joints.
• Reliability and validity of the device were investigated in a clinical setting.

Main Results:

• The study details modifications to the Exos Handmaster's setup for improved usability.
• Results from the reliability and validity investigation of the Exos Handmaster are presented.
• The Exos Handmaster shows potential as a tool for more accurate digital joint ROM measurement.

Conclusions:

• The Exos Handmaster offers a potentially more accurate method for assessing digital joint range of motion compared to traditional goniometry.
• This technology could provide better functional assessments for hand impairment and rehabilitation.
• Further validation is essential to establish its role in clinical practice and occupational assessments.