3D motion analysis comparison of left handers’ wrist flexion and cutting accuracy according to scissors type

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to research the difference in wrist flexion and accuracy of left-handers when using regular scissors made for right-handed persons versus scissors made for left-handers. [Subjects and Methods] Eighteen left-handers participated in the experiment. There were ten males and eight females subjects. The degree of wrist flexion of 18 left-handers was analyzed when using scissors designed for left-handers and when using scissors designed for right-handers. [Results] When left-handers used left-handed scissors, they carried out the task while extending the wrist at 4.67±14.60°, but when they used right-handed scissors, they carried out the task while flexing the wrist at 1.19±12.41°. When left-handers used left-handed scissors, the error rate was 1.39±1.29 times on average, but when they used right-handed scissors, the rate was 0.72±0.67 times on average. [Conclusion] When left-hand dominant persons used left-handed scissors rather than right-handed scissors, the degree of wrist flexion decreased, which created more functionality, and the accuracy of the cutting increased. For improved cutting accuracy and wrist stability and to protect the wrist from extensive flexion, it is necessary for left-handers to use scissors that are made for left-handed people.