Experimental investigation of the scaphoid strain during wrist motion

J Biomech. 1990;23(12):1277-84. doi: 10.1016/0021-9290(90)90387-i.

Abstract

The scaphoid is the most frequently fractured of the carpal bones [Taleisnik, J., The Wrist, Churchill Livingstone, New York (1985)]. This project was undertaken to qualitatively evaluate the strain in the scaphoid during wrist motion using a newly developed strain gage method. Strain gage rosettes were mounted within the scaphoid and the range of motion of the hand was monitored using a custom designed electrogoniometer and data acquisition system. Ten specimens were utilized for this study. Results indicated that supination/pronation (S/P) of the forearm did not affect the strain in the scaphoid. A map of the strain in the waist of the scaphoid, as a function of flexion/extension (F/E) and radial/ulnar deviation (R/U), was generated. The contour plot of scaphoid strain vs range of motion (ROM) shows a valley where strains are low. Minimum scaphoid strain was found near neutral F/E and 15 degrees of ulnar deviation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Carpal Bones / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Monitoring, Physiologic
  • Movement / physiology*
  • Range of Motion, Articular / physiology
  • Stress, Mechanical
  • Wrist Joint / physiology*