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Computer-assisted hand-held dynamometer: low-cost instrument for muscle function assessment in rehabilitation medicine.
Harlaar, J., Roebroeck, M.E., Lankhorst, G.J. Computer-assisted hand-held dynamometer: low-cost instrument for muscle function assessment in rehabilitation medicine. Medical & Biological Engineering & Computing: 1996(9), p. 329-335.
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In rehabilitation medicine, muscle function is assessed during the physical examination of the patient. Although a simple hand-held instrument improves the assessment of static strength, it is rarely used in clinical practice, where dynamic measurements are preferred. A computer-assisted hand-held dynamometer (CAHNDY) has been developed that enable the clinician to measure dynamic muscle function in a standardised manner, using simple (i.e. portable and low-cost) apparatus. The CAHNDY comprises a force transducer and a movement transducer interfaced to a personal computer. In the study dynamic measurement protocols are used, based on a biomechanical analysis of daily activities. In this way, iso-functional profiles can be established, describing the kinematics of muscle function in its functional context. Using the iso-functional profiles as a basis for standardisation, the double feedback algorithm of the CAHNDY assists the tester in meeting this standard, during maximal muscle funtion testing. In a multi-centre trial, the CAHNDY is evaluated by physical therapists for knee extensor and flexor function. The CAHNDY enables iso-functional dynamic muscle function testing, although application is limited by the maximum strength of the tester. It is concluded that the CAHNDY issuitable for use in rehabilitation medicine. (aut.ref.)
In rehabilitation medicine, muscle function is assessed during the physical examination of the patient. Although a simple hand-held instrument improves the assessment of static strength, it is rarely used in clinical practice, where dynamic measurements are preferred. A computer-assisted hand-held dynamometer (CAHNDY) has been developed that enable the clinician to measure dynamic muscle function in a standardised manner, using simple (i.e. portable and low-cost) apparatus. The CAHNDY comprises a force transducer and a movement transducer interfaced to a personal computer. In the study dynamic measurement protocols are used, based on a biomechanical analysis of daily activities. In this way, iso-functional profiles can be established, describing the kinematics of muscle function in its functional context. Using the iso-functional profiles as a basis for standardisation, the double feedback algorithm of the CAHNDY assists the tester in meeting this standard, during maximal muscle funtion testing. In a multi-centre trial, the CAHNDY is evaluated by physical therapists for knee extensor and flexor function. The CAHNDY enables iso-functional dynamic muscle function testing, although application is limited by the maximum strength of the tester. It is concluded that the CAHNDY issuitable for use in rehabilitation medicine. (aut.ref.)