title: Evaluating the neck joint position sense error with a standard computer and a webcam.
abstract: Joint Position Sense Error (JPSE) is a measure of cervical spine proprioception, and a simple method for measuring the JPSE could help in monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of rehabilitation of people with neck pain. In this study we demonstrate preliminary results of a method for measuring JPSE that does not require the participant to wear any equipment. Based on free publicly available head tracking software, compatible with any webcam, we developed a webpage which instructs the participant in performing a self-administered version of the test. The aim of this proof-of-concept study was to demonstrate the viability of this system. We compared our absolute error values (3.68 ± 1.2° after extension, 3.46 ± 1.66° after flexion, 3.89 ± 2.34° after rotation to the left and 4.02 ± 1.82°after rotation to the right) to values from literature, finding that our results do not differ from those of 6 out of 11 studies (which used more complex and expensive setups). The results indicate that our system allows assessment of the JPSE with a standard computer. Being based on a website, the system has potential for telemedicine use. Further research is required to validate the system before it can be recommended for use in clinical practice.
authors.affiliation: Recover Injury Research Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia. Electronic address: angelobasteris@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Angelo
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Basteris
authors.affiliation: Recover Injury Research Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia.
authors.forename: Ashley
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Pedler
authors.affiliation: Recover Injury Research Centre, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, QLD, Australia.
authors.forename: Michele
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sterling
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000503:physiopathology*; D003936:Diagnosis, Computer-Assisted; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology*; D019547:Neck Pain / Q000175:diagnosis*; D010781:Photography; D011434:Proprioception; D012399:Rotation; D012984:Software
keywords: Head; Joint position error; Movement analysis; Neck