Comparison of kinematic wrist motion between dominant and non-dominant hands in bimanual tasks of activities of daily living.

Abstract

Introduction: This study examined differences in wrist motion between the dominant and non-dominant hands during bimanual tasks of activities of daily living.

Methods: Twenty healthy participants performed eight tasks: four predominantly using the dominant hand (asymmetrical tasks) and four requiring equal use of both hands (symmetrical tasks). Wrist motion was measured with an electrogoniometer and directional wrist motion proportions were compared between hands.

Results: The dominant and non-dominant hands had complementary dart-throwing and reverse dart-throwing wrist motions during asymmetrical tasks, whereas both hands displayed similar dart-throwing directed wrist motions during symmetrical tasks.

Conclusion: Wrist rehabilitation after injury should include exercises that target both dart-throwing and reverse dart-throwing wrist motions to support recovery of function in bimanual activities of daily living.