| 摘要 |
An apparatus and method for evaluating a hypertonic condition such as spasticity in a movable extremity are described. The apparatus includes an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and a sensor-adapted for quantifying force or pressure. The apparatus further includes a data communication device adapted for transmitting data signals obtained from the accelerometer, said gyroscope, and said sensor for processing and real-time display. The method includes the steps of moving the extremity through a range of motion about an axis of rotation. During the movement of the limb parameters such as acceleration, angular velocity, the force applied to the extremity, and the time duration to move the extremity through the range of motion are all measured. The measured parameters are then transmitted to a data processor which processes the data to generate information that characterizes the hypertonic condition of the extremity for immediate feedback to the examiner or storage in a database for monitoring of the patient's condition. In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is described an apparatus and method for simulating movement of a limb that has a hypertonic condition based on characterizing information from a real limb. |
