A system for the objective assessment of hand proprioceptive function in pediatric and adult populations

Abstract

Proprioceptive signals from mechanoreceptors embedded in ligaments, tendons, and muscles are essential for the control of muscle tone and voluntary movement. Numerous neurological and orthopedic disorders are associated with proprioceptive dysfunction that impairs the control of balance and/or fine motor function. However, obtaining objective measures of proprioceptive function is difficult in most clinical settings, because available assessment methods rely on specialized equipment, expertise, or are too time-consuming. This paper presents a new tablet-based system that objectively measures finger position sense by implementing a psychophysical threshold search method. We here provide initial data that demonstrate the ease-of-use and efficacy of the system.