Mechanical Model of the Finger

INTRODUCTION The human finger consists of bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and pulleys. The finger pulleys are generally omitted in classical mathematical models despite the injury frequency of the pulleys is high. This fact can be seen especially in sport climbing where the treatment is complicated. It is the aim of this project to build a mechanical model of the finger including all mechanical elements to simulate the actual finger. The main question is, which pulley (or part thereof) is subjected to the highest load and stress, depending on the finger position. Different typical finger positions will be simulated, according to the grip types of sport climbing. This study will help to prevent pulley injuries, as well as to diagnose, which pulley (or part thereof) is ruptured.