title: The biomechanics of prehension.
abstract: Occupational therapists who work with people who have physical dysfunctions are often involved in the treatment of hand injuries or disabilities. This article describes some of the mechanical principles that affect hand function, including kinematics, kinetics (force and torque), friction, stress, and strain. Practical occupational therapy examples are used to explain these principles.
authors.affiliation: Occupational Therapy Program, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201.
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Spaulding
mesh_terms: D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D006225:Hand / Q000502:physiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006230:Hand Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D009068:Movement; D009788:Occupational Therapy