Upper Extremity Motion Assessment in Adult Ischemic Stroke Patients: A 3-D Kinematic Model

As part of a larger evaluative study of the effects of botulinum toxin type A (BTA) in ischemic stroke patients, a kinematic model of the trunk and upper extremities (UE) has been developed. The 3-D model provides a comprehensive method of assessing UE motion during performance tasks including exercises in reaching, grasping, and releasing. The 17-marker system tracks UE motion at a rate of 120 SPS with 7 infrared CCD cameras. The biomechanical model developed for the system allows expression of torso, shoulder, elbow, and wrist motion in terms of Euler expressions. Concurrent EMG data is used to confirm periods of co-contraction and spasticity during planned movement. Preliminary trials with the system indicate sufficient fidelity for continued clinical trials.