Christos Karagiannopoulos, Sean F Griech, Raylene B Reed, Cameron Bassett
{"title":"Comparison of wrist flexor and extensor muscle recruitment between adults with and without chronic wrist hypermobility.","authors":"Christos Karagiannopoulos, Sean F Griech, Raylene B Reed, Cameron Bassett","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.007","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.007","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Chronic wrist hypermobility (CWH), a common condition among young adults due to atraumatic carpal region laxity or benign joint hypermobility, is characterized by decreased strength and proprioception, often without pain. Wrist function depends on both dynamic and static stabilizers, which mediate neuromuscular reflex responses. CWH may alter normal wrist neuromuscular recruitment and cause inadequate dynamic stabilization at different functional forearm positions.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>This study aimed to determine electromyographic (EMG) wrist muscle recruitment differences between individuals with and without CWH during sustained gripping activity, and whether forearm position influences muscle recruitment differently between these two groups.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Quasi-experimental cross-sectional.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Forty-four wrists were screened for CWH. Twenty-five wrists were allocated to a CWH group, and 19 wrists were allocated to a healthy control (HC) group. A purposive sample of 15 CWH and 15 HC-matched wrists was analyzed. EMG of the extensor carpi radialis brevis/longus (ECRB/L), extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU), flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU), and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) muscles, and grip force were recorded (% average) during a 10-second sustained gripping task using a hand-held dynamometer integrated with EMG. Electrode placement was enhanced via diagnostic ultrasound. Testing position (supination, pronation, neutral) was randomized.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Groups had comparable demographics (64% females; 85% right-handedness). Midcarpal instability (100%) and benign joint hypermobility syndrome (44%) were the most prevalent etiologies. MANOVA determined significant (p < 0.05, ƞ<sup>2</sup> 0.04-0.15) group differences for ECU, ECRB/L, and FCU, favoring the HC group regardless of forearm position. CWH individuals had higher FCR activity and lower grip force. No EMG differences existed across forearm positions within or between groups.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>CWH results in decreased dynamic stability from the ECU, FCU, and ECRB/L during gripping activity, regardless of forearm position. Increased FCR activity may serve as a compensatory mechanism for volar wrist stability. These findings may guide the prescription of muscle-specific stabilization exercises for individuals with CWH and midcarpal instability.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147789516","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Initial psychometric evaluation of an upper extremity arthrogryposis multiplex congenita-specific measure using Rasch analysis.","authors":"Caroline Elfassy, Lisa Wagner, Chantal Janelle, Reggie Hamdy, Lauren Hyer, Felicity Fishman, Krister Freese, Michelle James, Dan Zlotolow, Kathleen Montpetit, Johanne Higgins, Laurie Snider, Noémi Dahan-Oliel","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.01.003","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.01.003","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>In the absence of an upper extremity outcome measure specific to children with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita, a new outcome measure, the SHAPE-UP, was developed to help guide clinicians in their evaluation and decision making for treatment. It is designed for children with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita aged 1-21, consists of six descriptive questions and a video-recorded evaluation, divided into Task Completion and Analysis of Joint Motion and Position scales.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>The study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the SHAPE-UP Task Completion scale using Rasch analysis and determine the correlation between the number of joints involved and the Task Completion score.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>This is a cross-sectional study including six participating Shriners hospitals.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>One hundred and one participants completed the SHAPE-UP, with 92 (54 female, mean age = 10.35 years, SD = 5.18 years) having upper limb involvement and included in the analysis. A Rash Analysis was used and the scoring was revised to improve fit.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The original SHAPE-UP included 11 tasks (46 items), scored on a five-point scale. Rasch analysis revealed a significant item-trait interaction (χ2 = 129.55; p < 0.05), with disordered thresholds in most items. Specialists revised the SHAPE-UP, collapsing the scoring options to three and removing four tasks, which improved the fit (χ2 = 29.9026; p = 0.968233). Content validity was adequate (-10 to 7 logits). Construct validity was achieved, and excellent reliability was established (0.96130). However, high local dependency was observed in multiple item sets. A correlation coefficient of r = -0.0466 (p < 0.05) was calculated.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The SHAPE-UP Task Completion scale aligns with Rasch model expectations. However, clinical interpretation of the Analysis of Joint Motion and Position scale is needed. Future studies should explore the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of SHAPE-UP.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147789533","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Anne Karin Vik, Trine Sand Kaastad, Heidi Johansen, Inger Holm, Kristin Østlie
{"title":"Physical function, quality of life, musculoskeletal pain, and prosthesis use in adults with congenital reduction defects of the upper limb: A cross-sectional study.","authors":"Anne Karin Vik, Trine Sand Kaastad, Heidi Johansen, Inger Holm, Kristin Østlie","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2025.12.018","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2025.12.018","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Individuals with congenital reduction defects of the upper limb (CRDUL) are routinely offered prostheses to enhance function and prevent strain-related problems. Despite early interventions, long-term use is limited, and evidence of benefits in adulthood remains scarce.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>To compare physical function, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), life satisfaction, and musculoskeletal pain in adults with CRDUL vs population controls, and to examine differences between current and former prosthesis users to inform individualized habilitation strategies.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Cross-sectional study.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Adults (≥18 years) with congenital reduction defects of the upper limb (ICD 10 Q71.0-Q71.9) and randomly selected population controls completed a questionnaire covering demographics, physical function (QuickDASH: Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand), health-related quality of life (EQ 5D 5L VAS), life satisfaction (SWLS: Satisfaction With Life Scale), and self-reported musculoskeletal pain (past 12 months, present/absent). Congenital reduction defects of the upper limb-specific items (limb characteristics, prosthesis/specialized grip-related questions) were excluded for controls. Analyses included t tests, Mann-Whitney U, chi-square, and logistic regression; effect sizes: (Cliff's delta (δ), Cohen's d (continuous), and Cohen's h (categorical).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Of 192 eligible adults with CRDUL and 1092 randomly selected controls, 108 (56%) and 341 (31%) responded, respectively. The CRDUL group was younger (median 27 vs 48 years; p < 0.001), had higher QuickDASH scores (p < 0.001, δ= 0.48), and higher prevalence of neck, shoulder, and arm pain (p < 0.001, h= 0.51-0.57), particularly among women. HRQoL and life satisfaction scores were similar between groups (EQ-5D-5L VAS: 80 (IQR 70-90) in both; SWLS: 25.7 (SD 6.6) vs 25.7 (SD 6.3)). Prosthesis use was discontinued by 54%, most often due to discomfort and impracticality. No significant differences were found between current and former users across outcome measures.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Adults with CRDUL report reduced physical function and more musculoskeletal pain than controls, but similar HRQoL and life satisfaction. Prosthesis use was frequently discontinued. Findings support individualized prosthetic care guided by user-defined goals rather than routine provision based on anatomical feasibility.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147719051","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Priya Bakshi, Grace I Aubry, Nardos H Gebreyohannes, Amy L Jassman, Grace A Willman, Caitlyn E Wyrick
{"title":"Case report of a 54-year-old line specialist following surgical reconstruction of a complete chronic pectoralis major muscle tear.","authors":"Priya Bakshi, Grace I Aubry, Nardos H Gebreyohannes, Amy L Jassman, Grace A Willman, Caitlyn E Wyrick","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.011","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.011","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Literature on management of pectoralis major muscle injuries mostly describe acute injuries in young athletic males. Rehabilitation guidelines vary in the limited studies following reconstruction of chronic pectoralis major muscle tears.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>To add to the literature on postoperative rehabilitation guidelines, outcomes following chronic pectoralis major muscle tear reconstruction in an older individual.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Single case report.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Consensus-based clinical case reporting guidelines were referenced.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>54-year-old linesman with complete pectoralis major muscle tear had reconstruction with Achilles allograft 7months post injury. Allograft revascularization under no tension guided first 6 weeks of rehabilitation. This included continuous sling wear, no shoulder external rotation, abduction past neutral, passive flexion limited to 90°. Next 6 weeks focused on range of motion remediation and last 6 weeks on strengthening. Challenge of first 2 weeks was axillary skin breakdown from strict adduction in sling. Capsular tightness was not experienced after 6 weeks of immobilization. Full active range of motion was restored by 11 weeks, 5/5 strength by 18 weeks, with return to full duty at 19 weeks. Final QuickDASH score was 0%, and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation 80%.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study highlights absence of capsular tightness, minimal complications with good outcomes in an older individual with moderate to heavy work demands.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147719076","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Terese Aglen, Karin Hoegh Matre, Ruud W Selles, Jörg Aßmus, Tina Taule
{"title":"Hand therapy or not following collagenase treatment for Dupuytren's disease? A randomized controlled trial.","authors":"Terese Aglen, Karin Hoegh Matre, Ruud W Selles, Jörg Aßmus, Tina Taule","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.004","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.004","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Collagenase treatment can improve finger extension and hand function in patients with Dupuytren's disease. The role of hand therapy in enhancing or prolonging these effects remains unclear.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>The primary aim was to examine whether hand therapy, compared to no hand therapy, improves self-perceived occupational performance after collagenase treatment for Dupuytren's disease. The second aim was to investigate the effect of hand therapy on finger extension, grip strength, pain and overall patient impression. A third aim was to investigate whether outcomes differed between patients with metacarpophalangeal joint involvement only and those with combined metacarpophalangeal joint and proximal interphalangeal joint involvement.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Longitudinal randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups and four subgroups, registered at ClinicalTrials.gov.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Seventy-two patients with collagenase treated Dupuytren's disease were randomized to receive either hand therapy (Therapy group) or no hand therapy (Control group). Each group was stratified by joint involvement. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were Unité Rhumatologique des Affections de la Main scale, finger joint goniometer, Jamar dynamometer, Visual Analog Scale for pain, and Patient Global Impression of Change and of Satisfaction.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>At 1-year follow-up, no differences (mean difference (CI), p-value) were found between Therapy and Control groups in COPM scores: Metacarpophalangeal joint groups: COPM-P -0.2 (-1.9-1.4), p=0.519; COPM-S -0.6 (-2.3,1.2), p=0.450. Proximal interphalangeal joint groups: COPM-P -0.2 (-1.9,1.5), p=0.972; COPM-S -0.5 (-2.4,1.4), p=0.579. No significant differences were noted in secondary outcomes, except for pain and grip force CONCLUSIONS: Hand therapy did not improve COPM outcomes 1 year after collagenase treatment. Referral to hand therapy may be most beneficial for patients experiencing pain or requiring strong grip force. Whether more hand therapy improves residual proximal interphalangeal joint contractures remains unanswered.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147719079","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Open access to data… a good idea that can be taken too far.","authors":"Joy C MacDermid","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.003","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.003","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147693748","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Angelina C Romano, Alexandra Chenowith, Catherine Holden, Azeem Ahmad, Jordan Wickstrom
{"title":"Hiding in plain sight: A provider's educational guide to recognizing ulnar nerve compression.","authors":"Angelina C Romano, Alexandra Chenowith, Catherine Holden, Azeem Ahmad, Jordan Wickstrom","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2025.12.022","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2025.12.022","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Ulnar nerve compression is frequently overlooked at initial assessment due to its highly variable and often subtle presentation. Delayed diagnoses can have severe consequences on recovery because, when left untreated, soft tissue imbalances may lead to progressive deformities and permanent loss of function even after motor units reinnervate.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>This article aims to equip healthcare providers with the knowledge to recognize early indicators of ulnar nerve compression, facilitating timely referral and intervention. Despite the benefits of early detection, referrals to certified hand therapists remain inconsistent and diagnostic accuracy suboptimal, delaying appropriate treatment.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Educational guide with case illustration.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>By providing a structured educational resource, this paper seeks to address this critical gap by providing tools to enhance the recognition of ulnar nerve compression at various stages of progression.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Key features of ulnar nerve compression are outline, and a case illustration demonstrates the progression of deformity and functional impairment associated with delayed diagnosis and intervention.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Improved recognition and early intervention can help mitigate or even correct emerging hand deformities and prevent loss of intrinsic hand function, ultimately optimizing client outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147678727","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Miriam von Gunten, Petra Folly, Esther Vögelin, Antonia Reimer-Taschenbrecker
{"title":"Development and evaluation of extension gloves for children with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa: A case report.","authors":"Miriam von Gunten, Petra Folly, Esther Vögelin, Antonia Reimer-Taschenbrecker","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.01.002","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.01.002","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa causes severe skin fragility and progressive hand deformities, significantly impairing hand function. Strategies for these pseudosyndactyly include hand dressings, orthoses, and surgery.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>This report outlines the development of extension gloves designed for children and adolescents with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Case report.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Soft-material gloves were designed to prevent progression of pseudosyndactyly and thumb adduction while promoting finger extension. Prototypes were iteratively modified based on clinical assessments and patient feedback.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Two pediatric patients with severe recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa tested the gloves for 12 and 13 months. Both had previously rejected conventional orthoses due to discomfort. Up to three custom glove versions were developed per patient, featuring dynamic finger straps, fused finger compartments, and Velcro closures. Despite personalization, long-term use was limited to 30 min/day due to donning difficulties, wound issues, and discomfort. One patient discontinued due to health decline and contracture progression; the other stopped all orthotic use due to persistent discomfort.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This case report highlights challenges in developing extension gloves for children with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, including limited long-term use due to material and usability issues. However, the iterative, patient-centered design process offered valuable insights that informed the development of 3D-printed orthoses for future exploration.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147678755","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Sam Boroumand, Ismail Ajjawi, Emily Gu, Adam Littleton, Paula Flores-Pérez, Aliyar Zahedi Vafa, Felix J Klimitz, Fortunay Diatta
{"title":"Exploring 20 years of peripheral nerve injuries of the upper extremity: An analysis of median, radial, and ulnar nerve injuries presenting to US emergency departments.","authors":"Sam Boroumand, Ismail Ajjawi, Emily Gu, Adam Littleton, Paula Flores-Pérez, Aliyar Zahedi Vafa, Felix J Klimitz, Fortunay Diatta","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.012","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.02.012","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Upper extremity peripheral nerve injuries represent a significant source of patient morbidity, yet their epidemiology remains incompletely characterized.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>This study analyzes two decades of national data to provide comprehensive insights into patterns of nerve injury context/presentation.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>This study employs a cross-sectional, epidemiological analysis of a national public database.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The National Electronic Injury and Surveillance System (NEISS) database was queried from 2003-2023 to identify patients presenting to the emergency department with a \"nerve damage\" diagnosis in the upper extremity. These injuries were subsequently delineated based on the primary nerve impacted (median, radial, ulnar). Demographic and clinical variables were analyzed using two-proportion z-tests with Bonferroni correction across these comparison groups.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Analysis of 1199 cases revealed distinct patterns across nerve distributions. Radial nerve injuries occurred in significantly older patients (47.2 ± 20.0 years) compared to median (40.7 ± 18.1) and ulnar (35.5 ± 18.5) nerve injuries (p < 0.001). Gender distribution varied significantly, with females predominating in median nerve injuries (59.6%) and males in radial (71.3%) and ulnar (62.3%) nerve injuries. Activity-related mechanisms dominated median nerve injuries (96.5%), while sleeping position primarily affected radial nerves (62%), and direct trauma most commonly impacted ulnar nerves (42.9%). Hospital admission was highest for radial nerve injuries (6.1%) compared to ulnar (2.9%) and median (0.6%) nerve injuries (p = 0.010).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study provides a critical overview of upper extremity peripheral nerve injuries. Ultimately, these findings can be leveraged to inform targeted preventative measures for peripheral nerve injuries and provide clinicians invaluable qualitative context for the most frequent types/mechanisms of nerve injury they will be treating.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147678744","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Design and feasibility testing of an automated custom finger orthosis for virtual therapy.","authors":"Drew Miles, Yonas Tadesse","doi":"10.1016/j.jht.2026.01.004","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jht.2026.01.004","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>3D printing has revolutionized orthoses manufacturing in assistive technologies, enabling development of custom-fitted orthoses in under 24 hours. Physician-engineer collaboration is essential to addressing the mechanical complexities of automated orthoses design. Single-step manufacturing of these devices is necessary for simplistic and translational technologies.</p><p><strong>Purpose: </strong>This work proposes a novel automated program, application programing interface, to design a custom single-finger orthosis using only basic biometric data (body weight, height, and age) as input to enable fully virtual rehabilitation.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>Feasibility study, cross-sectional design, and survey study.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Customization without body scans streamlines programming and enables gross estimate of hand orthosis size. Computer-aided design models are automatically generated using the Automated Custom Finger Orthoses system that was created using several macros with SolidWorks and Visual Basic Editor. A military database was used for the biometric data for the program to establish a relationship between finger size and biometric data. Survey data were taken from 10 human healthy participants (six male and four female, aged between 18 and 60) using Likert scales to check fitness of 3D-printed soft index finger orthosis part.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Computer-aided design models were successfully created using the application programing interface using military database, the models were 3D-printed and fitted on subjects. The fitness of the device varies significantly under the current parameters. Eight of the 10 test devices fit their test subjects with overall average offsets of 7.00 mm, 6.14 mm, and 8.89 mm for DIP (L1), PIP (L2), and MCP joints (L3 offset), respectively and the subjects were fully donned. The biasing of current data toward male subjects results in slightly better fit accuracy in males than in females.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Anthropometric studies can aid in discerning fundamental ratios for orthoses design, allowing for custom-fitted designs and manufacturing with ease and efficiency.</p>","PeriodicalId":54814,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Hand Therapy","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147678749","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}