Myoelectric Prosthesis Users Improve Performance Time and Accuracy using Vibrotactile feedback when Visual Feedback is disturbed

Publication date: Available online 20 June 2018
Source:Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Author(s): Eitan Raveh, Sigal Portnoy, Jason Friedman
ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of adding Vibrotactile feedback (VTF) in myoelectric prosthesis users during performance of a functional task when visual feedback is disturbed.DesignA repeated-measures design with a counter-balanced order of three conditions.SettingLaboratory setting.ParticipantsTransradial amputees using a myoelectric prosthesis with normal or corrected eyesight (N=12, median age 65±13 years). Exclusion criteria were orthopaedic or neurologic problems.InterventionsAll subjects performed the Modified Box & Blocks test, grasping and manipulating 16 blocks over a partition using their myoelectric prosthesis. This was performed three times: In full light, in a dark room without VTF, and in a dark room with VTF.Main outcome measuresPerformance time, i.e. the time needed to transfer one block, and accuracy during performance, measured by number of empty grips, empty transitions with no block and block drops from the hand.ResultsSignificant differences were found in all outcome measures when VTF was added, with improved performance time (4.2 versus 5.3 seconds) and a reduced number of grasping errors (3.0 versus 6.5 empty grips; 1.5 versus 4 empty transitions; 2.0 versus 4.5 block drops).ConclusionsAdding VTF to myoelectric prosthesis users has positive effects on performance time and accuracy when visual feedback is disturbed.



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