IMU-Based Recurrence Quantification Analysis of the Signal Dampening Effect of a Thumb Protector in Deep Tendon Reflex Tests

摘要

Deep Tendon Reflex (DTR) tests are a vital part of a neurological examination that helps locate potential injuries to one's nervous system. While performing the tests, clinicians strike their thumbs for certain reflexes. To reduce pain caused by the reflex hammer, a thumb protector was developed. In this paper, we leveraged Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) and Inertia Measurement Units (IMU) to objectively investigate whether the use of thumb protectors in DTR tests alters the reflexes elicited by the medical practitioners. To this end, IMU sensors were attached to the proximal and distal upper and lower extremities of the person being examined and a DTR test was performed without and with a thumb protector worn. Based on statistical tests, we analyzed the RQA measures of the Euler angles (roll, pitch, and yaw) of IMU sensor data captured during DTR tests in two different conditions (with and without a thumb protector). Our analysis shows that the reflexes elicited while wearing a thumb protector is as much as those elicited without a thumb protector. Our findings imply that thumb protectors do not have a dampening effect on reflexes elicited.