Original scientific paper

Novel approaches in hand rehabilitation

IVAN GRUBIŠIĆ ; Ruđer Bošković Institute/Centre for Informatics and Computing, Bijenička 54, HR-10000, Zagreb, Croatia
HANA SKALA KAVANAGH ; “Sisters of Mercy” University Hospital Centre, University Department of Rheumatology, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Referral Center for Spondyloarthropathies, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Republic of Croatia, Vinogradska 29, 10000 Zagreb,
SIMEON GRAZIO ; “Sisters of Mercy” University Hospital Centre, University Department of Rheumatology, Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Referral Center for Spondyloarthropathies, Ministry of Health and Social Welfare Republic of Croatia, Vinogradska 29, 10000 Zagreb,

Abstract

Hand rehabilitation is a constructive activity to gradually restore health
and functionality of hand and fingers. Motion disabilities of hand and fingers are a common problem and can be a result of a wide variety of diseases and traumas. This problem is especially emphasized in the elderly population.

Common methods in hand rehabilitation include physical therapy that should be performed frequently. However, patients tend not to follow the program strictly and perform exercises the wrong way, making progress slower or even stagnant. With the development of novel contactless and noninvasive sensors for tracking hand and finger motion the hand rehabilitation can be further upgraded. In this paper we looked into existing hand rehabilitation systems and presented a concept of a novel system by empowering capabilities of new sensors with virtual reality (VR) environment. The existing hand rehabilitation exercises were analysed, adapted and verified in order to be implemented into the system.

Keywords

Hrčak ID:

139533

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/139533

Publication date:

31.3.2015.

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