COMPUTER-ASSISTED HAND-HELD DYNAMOMETER - LOW-COST INSTRUMENT FOR MUSCLE FUNCTION ASSESSMENT IN REHABILITATION-MEDICINE

In rehabilitation medicine, muscle function is assessed during the phy sical examination of the patient. Although a simple hand-held instrume nt improves the assessment of static strength, it is rarely used in cl inical practice, where dynamic measurements are preferred. A computer- assisted hand-held dynamometer (CAHNDY) has been developed that enable s the clinician to measure dynamic muscle function in a standardised m anner, 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 us ed, based on a biomechanical analysis of daily activities. In this way , iso-functional profiles can be established, describing the kinematic s of muscle function in its functional context. Using the iso-function al profiles as a basis for standardisation, the double feedback algori thm of the CAHNDY assists the tester in meeting this standard, during maximal muscle function testing. In a multi-centre trial, the CAHNDY i s evaluated by physical therapists for-knee extensor and flexor functi on. 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 rehabilitatio n medicine.