Authors:
Shival Indermun
1
;
2
and
Taahirah Mangera
2
Affiliations:
1
Mechanical and Mechatronic Department, Stellenbosch University, Western Cape, South Africa
;
2
School of Mechanical, Aeronautical and Industrial Engineering, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Keyword(s):
Low-Cost, Diagnostics, Hand Rehabilitation, Flex Sensors, Prototype, Hand Impairment, Developing Countries, Design, Evaluation.
Abstract:
Individuals in developing regions who require hand therapy for rehabilitation face difficulties accessing local clinics. The objective of the current study was to create a cost-effective device capable of assessing finger range of motion (ROM) for diagnostic and potential rehabilitation purposes in these disadvantaged areas. The design employs flexible sensors and a soft glove that records the motion of key finger joints during a variety of daily activities performed by ten healthy participants. The results demonstrated the glove’s effectiveness in measuring dynamic ROM for both hands of all participants. This promising outcome suggests that the flexible sensor holds great potential as a tool for hand rehabilitation and diagnosing hand impairment, offering a valuable solution to address accessibility issues in developing countries.