A Kinematic Assessment of Normal Elbow Movement in Activities of Modern Day Living

Abstract

BackgroundThe range of functional elbow movement has previously been studied. The data obtained have been used to provide an objective basis for the determination of disability, to determine the optimum position for elbow splinting arthrodesis and to assist in the design of elbow prostheses. The present study aimed to evaluate the functional range of elbow movement as applied to a predetermined list of activities of daily living, which might be considered relevant to modern day life. This includes the use of computers and driving, which has not been studied earlier.Methods Twenty normal volunteers were studied and the range of elbow motion required for specific activities was recorded by means of a 'Polhemus Fastrak' magnetic tracking measurement system. The results obtained suggests that the functional range of elbow flexion is from 1.33 • to 146.57 • and the rotation arc is from 56 • of pronation to 104 • of supination. ConclusionThis data compliments the work previously carried out, and defines the functional range of movement for some of the common activities of daily living.

From range of motion to function: Loss of joint flexibility after burns: when is it a problem?

“…Examples of such summarized scores are the Constant Score 45,46 and the Liverpool Elbow Score. 47 However, for all rating scales, it is unknown how loss of ROM expressed in the different severity levels is related to limitations in performance of activities and/or restrictions in participation without compensatory movements.…”