Apparatus and method for evaluation of shoulder stability
US5919148A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 27, 1996 |
| Grant date | Jul 6, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 27, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61B5/702
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus for evaluating the stability of the shoulder joint of a human subject includes a rotatable, elbow-holding assembly that has sensors and associated processing components for producing an indication of the rotational angle of the long axis of the humerus of the subject relative to a reference. Sensors measure muscle activity as the humerus is rotated. Changes in the muscle activity measurement are processed to produce an indication of the changes in the subject's apprehension as the humerus is moved. The apparatus may include a clock that indicates the times when muscle activity occurs. The levels of muscle activity may be recorded at different times and indicated to the operator. Pressure can be applied in a direction normal to the long axis of the humerus, and sensors produce an indication of the level of the applied pressure and corresponding apprehension of the subject. Also available is an indication of the level of muscle activity that occurs when such pressure is applied.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.