Development of 3D-printed myoelectric hand orthosis for patients with spinal cord injury

Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 2019 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-019-0633-6 · Published: December 12, 2019

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Biomedical

Simple Explanation

This study introduces a 3D-printed hand orthosis designed to help individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries (SCI) improve their grasping abilities. The orthosis uses electromyography (EMG) signals to control movement, offering a personalized and low-cost assistive device. The orthosis works by enhancing the tenodesis grip, which is the natural closing of the fingers when the wrist is extended. EMG signals from the user's muscles control a linear motor that extends the wrist, causing the fingers to close and grasp objects. The study found that the orthosis improved hand function, particularly in tasks related to eating, and users were generally satisfied with the device's effectiveness and ease of use. The device offers an intuitive and voluntary control that can be applied in any participant who can control their proximal upper extremity.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

10 participants with chronic cervical SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The 3D-printed myoelectric orthosis improved hand function in subjects, as determined using the TRI-HFT (p < 0.05).
2
Participants experienced immediate improvements in their ability to eat after wearing the orthosis, indicating its potential to enhance functional independence in daily living.
3
The orthosis received high ratings for usability, particularly regarding its effectiveness, demonstrating user satisfaction with the device's ability to assist with grasping objects.

Research Summary

This study presents a novel 3D-printed myoelectric hand orthosis designed to improve hand function in patients with cervical SCI. The orthosis utilizes EMG signals to control a tenodesis grip, offering a personalized and cost-effective solution. Results showed significant improvements in hand function, particularly in object manipulation and grasping tasks, as measured by the TRI-HFT. Participants also experienced immediate improvements in eating abilities and expressed overall satisfaction with the device's effectiveness. The study demonstrates the feasibility and promise of combining 3D printing and EMG-based control strategies in rehabilitation engineering. The orthosis offers a simple, intuitive, and easy-to-use assistive device for individuals with hand weakness due to cervical SCI.

Practical Implications

Improved Hand Function

The orthosis can significantly improve hand function in individuals with cervical SCI, enabling them to perform daily tasks more independently.

Cost-Effective Solution

The 3D-printed design offers a low-cost alternative to traditional hand orthoses, making assistive technology more accessible.

Personalized Assistive Device

The orthosis can be customized to fit individual hand sizes and needs, providing a more comfortable and effective assistive device.

Study Limitations

1
The device has some structural disadvantages such as bulky dimension due to the linear motor.
2
The current device does not support large grasp forces.
3
Long-term usability was not evaluated.

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