Utility of the iPhone 4 Gyroscope Application in the Measurement ofWrist Motion

摘要

Measurement of wrist range of motion (ROM) is importantto all aspects of treatment and rehabilitation of upper extremity conditions.Recently, gyroscopes have been used to measure ROM and may be more precise thanmanual evaluations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of theiPhone gyroscope application and compare it with use of a goniometer,specifically evaluating its accuracy and ease of use. Across-sectional study evaluated adult Caucasian participants, with no evidenceof wrist pathology. Wrist ROM measurements in 306 wrists using the 2 methodswere compared. Demographic information was collected including age, sex, andoccupation. Analysis included mixed models and Bland-Altman plots. Wrist motion was similar between the 2 methods.Technical difficulties were encountered with gyroscope use. Age was anindependent predictor of ROM. Correct measurement ofROM is critical to guide, compare, and evaluate treatment and rehabilitation ofthe upper extremity. Inaccurate measurements could mislead the surgeon and harmpatient adherence with therapy or surgeon instruction. An application used bythe patient could improve adherence but needs to be reliable and easy to use.Evaluation is necessary before utilization of such an application. This studysupports revision of the application on the iPhone to improve ease of use.