A research protocol on leap motion tracking device: A novel intervention method in distal radial fracture rehabilitation

Abstract

Introduction Physiotherapeutic rehabilitation are used to optimize functional recovery following a distal radial fracture (DRF). Being most common upper limb fracture in all age groups, the DRF peaks in young men and in post-menopausal women with incidence ratio of 1:4. Leap motion control based rehabilitation of patients with DRF is limited. This research aims to assess the efficacy of leap motion control based rehabilitation in patients with DRF. Methods In an randomized parallel group trial, subjects (n = 40) with DRF will be recruited. The participants will be enrolled into either experimental or control group with 1:1 allocation ratio. Following the primary assessment and allocation, the participants in experimental group will receive both leap motion control and conventional therapy over a period of six weeks. Participants in conventional group would undergo only conventional therapy. The primary outcome measures will be Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and Universal goniometer however the grip strength and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) will be used as secondary outcome measures. Purpose of the study The findings of this trial will examine the impact of leap motion control in DRF patients with conventional therapy on improving the functional activity, range of motion (ROM), grip strength and pain. Expected clinical implications To conclude, this research seeks to examine the rapid and long term effects of leap motion control in DRF patients. The study findings would help prospective patients with DRF, which may include a newly designed approach of rehabilitation.

Semi-Immersive Virtual Reality Exercise Therapy for Upper Limb Rehabilitation in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury Using the Leap Motion Controller

“…Also, significant results were found in the follow-up in coordination, speed of movements, and fine and gross for the more affected side, as demonstrated by Cuesta-Gómez et al [ 16 ]. However, findings regarding distal radial fractures were inconclusive, according to Arora et al [ 17 ].…”

Wearable rehabilitation wristband for distal radius fractures

“…For example, in a clinical study of functional exercises based on cast immobilized patients conducted by Reid et al (2020) , patients were asked to perform palmar flexion and dorsiflexion and fist clenching for the wrist joint. Arora and Naqvi (2022) in a clinical validation trial of a leap motion tracking device had patients perform five movements: fingers flexion and extension, flexion and extension of the thumb, wrist radial and ulnar deviation, forearm pronation and supination and wrist flexion and extension. The results of the experiment verified the effectiveness of these rehabilitation exercises.…”