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BackgroundReduced range of motion in the shoulder can be a source of functional limitation. The use of inertial sensors to quantify movement in addition to more common clinical assessments of the shoulder may allow clinicians to understand that they are potentially unnoticed by visual identification. The aim of this study was to generate an explanatory model for shoulder abduction based on data from inertial sensors.MethodA cross-sectional study was carried out to generate an explanatory model of shoulder abduction based on data from inertial sensors. Shoulder abduction of thirteen older adults suffering from shoulder dysfunction was recorded with two inertial sensors placed on the humerus and scapula. Movement variables (maximum angular mobility, angular peak of velocity, peak of acceleration) were used to explain the functionality of the upper limb assessed using the Upper Limb Functional Index (ULFI). The abduction movement of the shoulder was explained by six variables related to the mobility of the shoulder joint complex. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to explain the results obtained on the functionality of the upper limb.ResultsThe MANOVA model based on angular mobility explained 69% of the variance of the ULFI value (r-squared = 0.69). The most relevant variables were the abduction-adduction of the humerus and the medial/lateral rotation of the scapula.ConclusionsThe method used in the present study reveals the potential importance of the analysis of the scapular and humeral movements for comprehensive evaluation of the upper limb. Further research should include a wider sample and may seek to use this assessment technique in a range of potential clinical applications.

Background: Force sense is described as the ability to reproduce a desired level of strength. An adequate sensation of the muscular thumb effort allows us to be able to carry out activities of daily life. Objective: The primary objective of the present study was to evaluate the impact of a proprioceptive exercise program on the force sense for carpometacarpal joint. Methods: A total of 17 elderly women with a diagnosis of carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis in their dominant hand participated in the study. Mean pinch force errors were measured at basal, 4, and 12 weeks of treatment. Results: Statistically significant differences in force sense testing scores after the proprioceptive exercise program were observed. Conclusion:The proprioceptive exercise program could improve precision on force sense of the thumb in patients with carpometacarpal joint osteoarthritis.