The compensatory motion of wrist immobilization on thumb and index finger performance – kinematic analysis and clinical implications

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Based on the high prevalence of people with problems in the wrist and hand simultaneously, it is of its importance to clarify whether hand joints exert extra motion to compensate for wrist motion while immobilized.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to measure the compensatory movement of the thumb and index finger when people perform daily activities with an immobilized wrist.

METHODS: Thirty healthy volunteers were recruited in this study. A wrist splint, the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test, and the OptoTrak Certus motion tracking system were used. Seven inter-digit mean joint angles of the index finger and thumb were calculated. Paired sample t-test was used.

RESULTS: (1) The compensatory motions were noted in the Metacarpophalangeal and Carpometacarpal joints of the thumb, and the proximal interphalangeal joints of the index finger; (2) The manifestation of compensatory motion was related to type of activity performed except when picking up light and heavy cans.

CONCLUSIONS: The compensatory motions appeared while the wrist was immobilized and were found to be disadvantageous to the progression of disease. In the future, studies need to be done to understand how to select products with correct ergonomic design to enable people to reap greater benefits from wearing wrist splints.