Upper extremity motion analysis

Upper extremity motion analysis includes an extensive occupational therapy evaluation and test of a patient's upper extremity function using video documentation and electromyographic measurements. The test evaluates the shoulder, elbow, wrist flexion and extension, as well as grasp, release and gripping functions.

What happens during upper extremity motion analysis?

The patient will be videotaped while performing a range of motion and grasp and release activities. Muscles are also monitored by electromyography (EMG), which are essentially muscle microphones that provide information on when and how long monitored muscles are firing. Patients need to be able to cooperate by understanding tasks requested by staff (such as attempting to open and close the hand).

Benefits

The role of occupational therapy is to evaluate how patients move and use their upper extremities for functional tasks. The therapist evaluates the patient's ability to perform active range of motion (AROM), strength, sensation and simulated functional tasks. It is also important to evaluate how a patient compensates for decreased ability to use one extremity as well as any functional patterns of movement that have become habit to achieve function. After the assessment, all the information is discussed with the physician and other staff members to determine appropriate intervention.