Degree
Master of Engineering Science
Program
Mechanical and Materials Engineering
Collaborative Specialization
Musculoskeletal Health Research
Supervisor
Lalone, Emily
Affiliation
University of Western Ontario; Roth McFarlane Hand and Upper Limb Centre (HULC), St. Joseph's Healthcare Centre
2nd Supervisor
Ferreira, Louis
Affiliation
University of Western Ontario; Roth McFarlane Hand and Upper Limb Centre (HULC), St. Joseph's Healthcare Centre
Co-Supervisor
Abstract
Hand arthritis is the leading cause of disability in individuals over the age of 50; resulting in dysfunction and pain, making activities of daily living and recreational activities such as golf difficult. Few studies have been conducted on the biomechanical response of individuals with hand arthritis when performing functional activities. This research quantified hand grip movements and strength differences seen in individuals with hand arthritis. Using a video-based motion capture system (Dartfish), a grip limitation of 17.2% (maximum flexion), and 12.7% (maximum extension) was discovered. A wireless finger force measurement system (FingerTPS), was used to show that larger diameter, softer firmness golf grips assisted in reducing the grip force in individuals with and without hand arthritis during a golf swing. This research will benefit the sport biomechanics and clinical fields, providing quantitative results to develop more sophisticated joint protection devices and gain a better understanding of hand arthritis mechanics.
Recommended Citation
Holland, Sara Frances, "Investigating Grip Range of Motion and Force Exerted by Individuals with and without Hand Arthritis during Functional Tasks and while Swinging a Golf Club" (2019). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 6214.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/6214