Compact Device for Precise Rehabilitation of Patients Post Tendon Repair

Abstract

A passive continuous finger movement is necessary to prevent tendon adhesions for patients post tendon repair. In clinics, conventional devices are used, which utilized elastic bands to reduce applied tension on the repaired tendon during movements. However, the device cannot offer precise movements that adequate to the repaired tendon. In this study, the personalizable and practical rehabilitation device was developed based on the hand geometries of individuals. The cable was routed along the repaired tendon; therefore, finger movements were achieved via twisted string actuation with a single tiny motor. The antagonistic movement of the joint was assisted using an elastic structure. For system evaluation, the device was applied to one patient post flexor surgery. The 440-g personalized device was compactly fit on the hand. Sufficient joint range of motion (61.14o) was generated, and adjusting parameters such as joint velocity was possible via a user interface. Therefore, the proposed device is expected to use even at home for rehabilitation of patients post tendon repair