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Effects of wrist and finger posture on finger...
Journal article

Effects of wrist and finger posture on finger independence

Abstract

Intended actions of one finger produce involuntary movement or force in other fingers. Mechanical and neural factors limit finger independence. The interplay between anatomical factors, wrist and finger postures, and finger independence remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of wrist and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) posture on involuntary finger forces and extensor digitorum (ED) activity. Twenty participants performed submaximal isometric finger extensions in three wrist positions (30° extension, neutral, and 30° flexion) and two MCP postures (straight and 90° flexion). Involuntary index finger force increased with MCP flexion, suggesting the importance of intertendinous connections in finger independence. Consistent with previous research, ED activity was generally higher in wrist extension than neutral and flexed postures. Understanding the role of passive properties within the hand may help us improve finger rehabilitation strategies.

Authors

Somasundram KG; Keir PJ

Journal

Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, Vol. 79, ,

Publisher

Elsevier

Publication Date

December 1, 2024

DOI

10.1016/j.jelekin.2024.102941

ISSN

1050-6411

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