Studying upper-limb kinematics using inertial sensors: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: In recent years, there has been a great interest in analyzing upper-limb kinematics in order to investigate scapulohumeral rhythm, as its alteration has been associated with shoulder joint complex injuries. The use of inertial sensors is presented as a convenient and portable analysis method for studying kinematics in terms of angular mobility and linear acceleration. The aim of this study was to analyze upper-limbs kinematics in the three anatomical axes, obtained by inertial sensors. RESULTS: Descriptive graphics of analytical tasks performed were obtained. The main difference in mobility between the scapula and humerus was found in pitch axis for abduction ([Formula: see text] = 107.6°, SD = 9.3°) and flexion ([Formula: see text] = 113.1°, SD = 9.3°). CONCLUSION: The use of inertial sensors for human kinematics analysis is favorable. Although this study identified movement patterns, and supports inertial sensors as a useful device to analyze upper-limb kinematics, further studies with subjects with shoulder pathology to establish differences in movement patterns and scapulohumeral rhythm between healthy and pathological shoulders should be carried out.