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  • Title: Analysis of tetraplegic reaching in their 3D workspace following posterior deltoid-triceps tendon transfer.
    Author: Robinson MA, Barton GJ, Lees A, Sett P.
    Journal: Spinal Cord; 2010 Aug; 48(8):619-27. PubMed ID: 20065989.
    Abstract:
    STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. OBJECTIVES: To quantify three-dimensional (3D) reachable workspace in different groups of tetraplegic participants and to assess their reaching performance within this workspace. SETTING: Northwest Regional Spinal Injuries Centre, UK. METHODS: The 3D reachable workspace of three groups of tetraplegics (NON-OP, operated group (OP) and tetraplegic control group (CON(Tetraplegic)) with varying levels of triceps function together with a healthy control group (CON(Healthy))) was defined by reaching to five target positions (anterior, medial, lateral, superior and inferior) located on the periphery of their workspace. Joint angles and inter-joint co-ordination were analysed after a 3D reconstruction of the thorax, humerus and forearm. The performance related variables of movement time, peak velocity, time-to-peak velocity and curvature index were also examined. RESULTS: The reachable volumes covered were consistent with the level of triceps function as CON(Healthy) covered a significantly greater volume than the tetraplegic groups and in turn the OP covered a larger workspace volume than NON-OP. The reduced workspace of tetraplegics was identified as being due to restrictions in workspace above shoulder height and across the body. Co-ordination data identified some differences in movement patterns but when reaching to targets on the workspace there were no significant differences between the OP and NON-OP groups. CONCLUSION: This study provided a detailed assessment of reachable workspace and target reaching. Tetraplegic participants found the superior and medial parts of the workspace were the most challenging directions. Standardised biomechanical analysis of tetraplegic upper-limb function is required for objective assessment.
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