title: Computer-assisted hand-held dynamometer: low-cost instrument for muscle function assessment in rehabilitation medicine.
abstract: 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 enables 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 function 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 maximal strength of the tester. It is concluded that the CAHNDY is suitable for use in rehabilitation medicine.
authors.affiliation: Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Free University Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. j.harlaar@azvu.nl
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Harlaar
authors.forename: M E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Roebroeck
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Lankhorst
mesh_terms: D000553:Ambulatory Care; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000295:instrumentation; D012046:Rehabilitation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D012815:Signal Processing, Computer-Assisted; D014159:Transducers