Abstract
Multifactorial motion analysis was first established for gait and then developed in
the upper extremity. Recordings of infrared light reflecting sensitive passive markers
in space, combined with surface eletromyographic recordings and/or transmitted forces,
allow eclectic study of muscular coordination in the upper limb. Brachial plexus birth
injury is responsible for various patterns of muscle weakness, imbalance, and/or simultaneous
activation, soft tissue contractures, and bone-joint deformities, leading to individual
motion patterns and adaptations, which we studied by means of motion analysis tools.
We describe the technical development and examination setup to evaluate motion impairment
and present first clinical results.
Motion analysis is a reliable objective assessment tool allowing precise pre- and
postoperative multimodal evaluation of upper limb function.
Level of evidence: II.
Keywords
motion analysis - upper limb - brachial plexus birth injury - medial rotation contracture
