Bare-handed muscle strength examination device

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide: a bare-handed muscle strength testing device which, using a load movement measurement device and an inertial sensor having a simple configuration, can capture minute muscle contraction of a finger while suppressing the compensatory action of peripheral muscles; and the state and the recovery degree of the median nerve, the ulnar nerve and the radial nerve can be evaluated. This bare-handed muscle strength testing device is provided with: a finger insertion section (30) comprising a separate finger affixing section (28) and an index finger insertion section (29); a ring (15) that can be worn on the fingertip of the index finger; a three-axis acceleration sensor (11) that is affixed to the ring (15) and that is capable of measuring the movement of the fingertip; and a fingertip pressure sensor (32) that is capable of measuring the magnitude of a load applied to the fingertip. And a load elastic body (31) for applying an adjustable load to the fingertip on which the ring (15) is worn, and the other finger fixing part (28) has a space having a shape in which the inserted middle finger, ring finger, and little finger cannot move in any direction. The forefinger insertion part (29) has a space having a shape that allows the inserted forefinger to move toward the finger pad side or the thumb side or toward the fingernail side or the thumb side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a manual muscle strength testing device capable of evaluating the status and recovery degree of the median nerve, ulnar nerve and radial nerve. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, with the advent of therapeutic drugs for various central and peripheral nervous system diseases and the advancement of regenerative medicine, neurological diseases have rapidly shifted from an era of "incurability" to one of "selective treatment based on the condition." However, since damaged nerve fibers recover very slowly, evaluating the subtle neurological recovery resulting from treatment has become increasingly important.

[0003] Currently, there are two main types of nerve evaluation methods actually used in clinical settings.

[0004] These two methods are an evaluation method based on an examination using a handgrip dynamometer (hereinafter referred to as a "handgrip test") and an evaluation method based on a manual muscle test (hereinafter referred to as a "MMT").

[0005] The former evaluation method based on grip strength examination is a method for evaluating the patient's neurological status and degree of recovery by measuring the patient's grip strength every day and recording the measurement results to visualize changes in grip strength values.

[0006] The latter MMT-based assessment method measures the severity of neurological impairment by having a doctor palpate the affected area of ​​the patient's nerves and observe their movements under load. The severity of neurological impairment is subjectively categorized into the following six stages (MMT 0-5) for evaluation.

[0007] 0 (Zero): Even if the person wants to move, the muscles are completely motionless and no effort is being exerted.

[0008] 1 (Trace: Microcontraction): When force is applied, the muscles contract, but the joints cannot move.

[0009] 2 (Poor): A state where a force other than gravity is applied to the joint to the extent that the joint can be moved (approximately on the ground and in the horizontal direction).

[0010] 3 (Fair): A state in which a force is applied that enables the joint to move even against gravity (even when moving in a direction substantially perpendicular to the ground).

[0011] 4 (Good): The joint can move fully even when a certain degree of resistance is applied.

[0012] 5 (Normal): The joint has sufficient muscle strength to move to its full extent even when considerable resistance is applied.

[0013] However, the nerve evaluation methods based on grip strength testing and MMT have their own problems and common problems.

[0014] First, issues with grip strength testing include the fact that handgrip dynamometers are designed for healthy individuals and cannot measure even the smallest grip strength of patients. Furthermore, the value obtained using a handgrip dynamometer represents the sum of multiple muscles innervated by the median and ulnar nerves, making it impossible to assess the strength of each nerve (median, ulnar, and radial nerves) individually. For example, if the median nerve is normal and only the ulnar nerve is impaired, the handgrip dynamometer primarily measures the strength of muscles innervated by the healthy median nerve, making it impossible to assess the condition or recovery of the muscles innervated by the ulnar nerve.

[0015] Next, MMT's problems include the fact that the degree of neurological impairment is subjectively measured based on individual criteria, resulting in subjective results that are dependent on the physician's expertise and, therefore, are not quantitative or objective. Furthermore, the fact that damaged nerve fibers recover very slowly makes it difficult to assess even the smallest degree of neurological recovery using a six-stage scale. Consequently, while neurological recovery is ongoing, it is difficult to accurately assess actual symptom improvement and provide objective indicators for reporting to patients, leading to a growing problem of treatment interruption.

[0016] Another common problem with both is that both grip strength tests and MMT measure maximum muscle strength and are therefore unsuitable for clinical settings where emphasis is placed on evaluating the status and recovery of individual nerves.

[0017] Furthermore, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-8324) describes an evaluation system for thumbs and fingers (see especially paragraphs 0009 and Figure 1 、 4 ), which is a measuring device (10) for evaluating the maximum muscle strength of a finger alone, comprising a fixing platform (12) for fixing the arm (2) in order to suppress the influence of the force of the arm, and a sensor part (11) for inserting a finger alone and measuring the muscle strength.

[0018] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-83004) describes a health monitoring system (see, in particular, paragraphs 0016 and Figure 1), which is composed of a motion detection device (1) for detecting the motion of a user's finger and sending measurement data, and a management device (2) for receiving the measurement data from the motion detection device (1) and storing it, analyzing the finger motion based on the measurement data and monitoring the user's health status, and records that the motion detection device (1) has a plurality of motion detection sensors (3) and a communication device (4) connected to the motion detection sensor (3) and communicating with the management device (2), the motion detection sensor (3) has a base (5), a pair of arms (6), an acceleration sensor (7) for detecting the acceleration of the finger, and a touch pressure sensor (8) for detecting the pressure when the finger contacts an object, the motion detection sensor (3) is worn on at least three fingers (thumb, little finger, index finger or middle finger), the detection of the motion of the thumb and index finger or middle finger is used to determine the obstruction of the median nerve, the detection of the motion of the little finger is used to determine the obstruction of the ulnar nerve, and the detection of the motion of the thumb and index finger is used to determine the obstruction of the radial nerve (especially refer to paragraphs 0017, 0027 and Figures 2-4 ).

[0019] Prior art literature

[0020] Patent Literature

[0021] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-008324 (Patent No. 5958962)

[0022] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-083004 (Patent No. 6546733) Summary of the Invention

[0023] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0024] However, the thumb and finger evaluation system described in Patent Document 1, as described in paragraph 0012, is helpful for the evaluation and rehabilitation training of the muscle strength and motor coordination of the thumb and fingers. However, similar to the problem of the grip strength test, it cannot perform separate muscle strength evaluation for each nerve (median, ulnar, and radial nerves). It does not measure the maximum muscle strength in the same way as the grip strength test and MMT. Therefore, it is not suitable for clinical sites that want to focus on the status and recovery evaluation of each nerve.

[0025] In addition, the health monitoring system described in Patent Document 2 is used to determine disorders of the median nerve, ulnar nerve, and radial nerve, as described in paragraph 0027, but the motion detection device (1) has multiple motion detection sensors (3), a management device (2), and a communication device (4). The motion detection sensor (3) has a base (5), a pair of arms (6), an acceleration sensor (7), and a touch pressure sensor (8), and needs to be worn on at least three fingers (thumb, little finger, index finger, or middle finger), resulting in a complex and expensive system structure. Moreover, since monitoring is always performed while each finger can move freely, there is a problem that it is easily affected by the force generated by the arm or other fingers.

[0026] In order to solve the problems of grip strength testing and MMT actually used in clinical fields and the problems of Patent Documents 1 and 2 at one stroke, the present invention has the following problems: first, to provide a manual muscle strength testing device, which uses a load motion measuring device with a simple structure and a small and lightweight inertial sensor to capture the tiny muscle contractions of the fingers while suppressing the compensatory effect of the surrounding muscles; second, to evaluate the status and recovery degree of the median nerve, ulnar nerve, and radial nerve by using the manual muscle strength testing device to measure only the load motion of the index finger.

[0027] Solutions to Problems

[0028] The manual muscle strength testing device of the invention according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

[0029] The manual muscle strength testing device comprises:

[0030] Other finger fixing parts can fix the middle finger, ring finger and little finger of the subject;

[0031] an inertial sensor that can be worn on the tip of the subject's index finger and can measure movement of the fingertip and record or transmit measurement data; and

[0032] The load applying unit applies a load to the fingertip on which the inertial sensor is mounted.

[0033] The invention according to claim 2 is characterized in that the manual muscle strength testing device according to claim 1 is:

[0034] The load applying portion is any one of the following elastic bodies:

[0035] An elastic body fixed on the pad side of the fingertip, which contracts when the fingertip moves toward the pad side; an elastic body fixed on the nail side of the fingertip, which stretches when the fingertip moves away from the nail side; an elastic body fixed on the thumb side of the fingertip, which contracts when the fingertip moves toward the thumb side; an elastic body fixed on the other finger fixing part side of the fingertip, which stretches when the fingertip moves away from the other finger fixing part; an elastic body fixed on the nail side of the fingertip, which contracts when the fingertip moves toward the nail side; and an elastic body fixed on the pad side of the fingertip, which stretches when the fingertip moves away from the pad side.

[0036] The invention according to technical solution 3 is a manual muscle strength testing device according to technical solution 1 or 2, characterized in that:

[0037] The manual muscle strength testing device includes a pressure sensor that can be worn on the fingertip and can measure the magnitude of the load applied to any one of the fingertip side, thumb side, and nail side of the fingertip and record or transmit the load measurement data.

[0038] The inertial sensor and the pressure sensor are fixed on a ring that can be worn on the fingertip.

[0039] The pressure sensor is fixed on the outside of the annular portion of the ring to all or any one of the fingertip side, thumb side and nail side of the fingertip.

[0040] The load applying section applies a load to a pressure sensor fixed to one of the fingertip side, the thumb side, and the nail side of the fingertip.

[0041] Effects of the Invention

[0042] The manual muscle strength testing device of the invention according to technical solution 1 can provide a manual muscle strength testing device that uses a load motion measuring device with a simple structure and a small and lightweight inertial sensor, which can capture the tiny muscle contractions of the subject's fingers while suppressing the compensatory effect of the surrounding muscles.

[0043] According to the manual muscle strength testing device of the invention involved in Technical Solution 2, in addition to the effect of the invention involved in Technical Solution 1, since the load-applying part is any one of an elastic body fixed on the pad side of the fingertip and contracted by the force in the direction of the fingertip moving toward the pad side, an elastic body fixed on the nail side of the fingertip and stretched by the force in the direction of the fingertip moving away from the nail side, an elastic body fixed on the thumb side of the fingertip and contracted by the force in the direction of the fingertip moving toward the thumb side, an elastic body fixed on the other finger fixing part side of the fingertip and stretched by the force in the direction of the fingertip moving away from the other finger fixing parts, an elastic body fixed on the nail side of the fingertip and contracted by the force in the direction of the fingertip moving toward the nail side, and an elastic body fixed on the pad side of the fingertip and stretched by the force in the direction of the fingertip moving away from the pad side, a substantially constant load can be applied to the fingertip when the fingertip moves toward the pad side, the thumb side or the nail side.

[0044] According to the invention of Technical Solution 3, in addition to the effects of the invention of Technical Solution 1 or 2, the manual muscle strength testing device is equipped with a pressure sensor that can be worn on the fingertip and can measure the magnitude of the load applied to any one of the fingertip side, thumb side and nail side of the fingertip and record or send the load measurement data. The inertial sensor and the pressure sensor are fixed on a finger ring that can be worn on the fingertip, and the pressure sensor is fixed on all or any one of the fingertip side, thumb side and nail side of the fingertip on the outside of the annular part of the finger ring. The load applying part applies a load to the pressure sensor fixed to any one of the fingertip side, thumb side and nail side of the fingertip, so that the magnitude of the load applied to the fingertip can be measured when the index finger is moved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Figure 1 It is a perspective view and a side view showing the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 and a first usage example.

[0046] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the main body of the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of the finger ring, finger pressing portion, other finger pressing portions, and finger cuff used in Example 1.

[0048] Figure 4 It is a perspective view and a side view showing the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 and a second usage example.

[0049] Figure 5 It is a perspective view and a side view showing the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 and a third usage example.

[0050] Figure 6This is a diagram showing the relationship between the displacement amount and the amplitude δ based on the output of the acceleration sensor.

[0051] Figure 7 : is a graph showing the δa value of the median nerve obtained in the first usage example.

[0052] Figure 8 : is a graph showing the δa value of the ulnar nerve obtained in the second usage example.

[0053] Figure 9 : is a graph showing the δa value of the radial nerve obtained in the third usage example.

[0054] Figure 10 It is a perspective view showing the structure of a manual muscle strength testing device according to a second embodiment.

[0055] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the appearance of a ring being worn on the index finger in Example 2 and the ring itself.

[0056] Figure 12 These are diagrams showing first to third usage examples of the manual muscle strength testing device according to the second embodiment.

[0057] Figure 13 This is a perspective view showing the structure of a finger insertion portion in a manual muscle strength testing device according to a third embodiment.

[0058] Figure 14 These are diagrams showing first to sixth usage examples of the manual muscle strength testing device according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to examples.

[0060] Example 1

[0061] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view and a side view showing the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 and a first usage example. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the main body of the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1.

[0062] like Figure 1 ( a ), (b) and Figure 2 As shown, the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 has the following structures (A) to (I).

[0063] (A) The palm rest portion 1 is composed of a rectangular plate-like body on which the entire palm P of the subject can be placed.

[0064] The plate-like body constituting the palm rest portion 1 is provided with a plurality of holes 2 in a matrix, with two holes 2 near the center of a long side connected by a slit 3. Furthermore, pins 4 are fixed to each of the seven holes 2 in the two rows in the center, with the heads of the pins 4 protruding toward the bottom surface of the plate-like body.

[0065] (B) A rectangular side wall portion 5 extending downward from one side of the palm rest portion 1 .

[0066] An opening 6 is provided in the center of the side wall 5, and legs 7 are provided on the inner sides of both sides, extending from the lower surface of a corner of the palm rest portion 1. Furthermore, a leg 7 also extends from the lower surface of another corner of the palm rest portion 1, and these three legs 7 support the palm rest portion 1 and the side wall 5.

[0067] Furthermore, in order to improve the workability on the lower surface side of the palm rest portion 1, three legs 7 are provided. However, thin legs may be extended from the lower surface of the corner portion where no legs 7 are provided to improve stability.

[0068] On the contrary, the leg portion 7 located on the inner side of the side wall portion 5 may not be provided. Moreover, the leg portion 7 may not be provided, and a rectangular auxiliary member with the same height as the side wall portion 5 may be arranged facing the side wall portion 5, and the palm support portion 1 may be placed on the auxiliary member for use.

[0069] (C) The restraining portion 8 for fixing the palm P on the upper surface of the palm rest portion 1 .

[0070] The restraining portion 8 includes a buckle 10 at one end of the flat belt 9 , and the other end of the flat belt 9 can be passed through the buckle 10 and then folded back to adjust the length.

[0071] That is, when the other end of the flat belt 9 is passed through Figure 1 Follow the slit 3 on the front side and pass through from the bottom surface side Figure 1 After the inner slit 3, Figure 1 As shown in (a), the buckle 10 is assembled on the subject's palm P, and the palm P can be fixed on the upper surface of the palm rest 1 by simply adjusting the length of the flat belt 9 .

[0072] (D) A three-axis acceleration sensor 11 that measures the movement of a fingertip and transmits the measurement data.

[0073] The three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is mounted on at least one fingertip of the subject's palm P (at Figure 1 (Index finger in (a)), the movement of the worn fingertip is measured and the measurement data is sent.

[0074] When the analysis unit (not shown) receives the measurement data transmitted from the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 and processes and analyzes it, the amplitude δ of the acceleration data in the movable direction of the fingertip can be measured.

[0075] Alternatively, instead of transmitting the measurement data from the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 , the measurement data may be recorded in a memory together with the measurement time, and after the measurement is completed, the memory may be connected to the analysis unit to retrieve the data.

[0076] (E) The load applying unit 12 applies an adjustable load to the fingertip in the measurement operation.

[0077] The load applying portion 12 is composed of a binding band 13 provided in a through hole 19 of a finger ring 15 described later, two rubber bands 14, and pins 4 (members formed by hooking the ends of the rubber bands 14 on their heads) fixed to the two rows of seven holes 2 described in (A) above.

[0078] Figure 3 (a) to (d) are perspective views of the finger ring 15, the finger pressing portion 20, the other finger pressing portion 23, and the finger cuff 26 used in Example 1, and each structure is described.

[0079] (F) A finger ring 15 for fitting the subject's fingertip into and fixing the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 .

[0080] like Figure 3 As shown in (a), the finger ring 15 is composed of a fingertip (at the Figure 1 The sensor is composed of an annular portion 16 into which the index finger is inserted (in (a)), a sensor fixing portion 18 provided at a position facing the slit 17 of the annular portion 16, and through holes 19 provided on both sides of the sensor fixing portion 18.

[0081] Furthermore, during measurement, the binding tape 13 is placed in the through hole 19 for use.

[0082] In addition, since the slit 17 is provided in the annular portion 16 and the annular portion 16 itself is elastic, the fingertip can be inserted into the annular portion 16 even if the thickness of the finger differs by several millimeters. However, the thickness of the finger varies greatly from person to person, and sometimes the fingertip other than the index finger is inserted for use. Therefore, it is best to prepare a variety of finger rings 15 with different diameters of the annular portion 16.

[0083] In addition, it is preferable that the diameter of the annular portion 16 is smaller on the front end side and larger on the rear end side.

[0084] (G) The finger pressing portion 20 for pressing the fingers of the measuring operation toward the palm rest portion 1 .

[0085] The finger pressing unit 20 is used to press the finger (in Figure 1 (Index finger in (a)) is fixed on the upper surface of the palm rest portion 1 with the subject's palm P facing upward or downward, and is used to press the second and third joints of the finger wearing the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 toward the palm rest portion 1, as shown in FIG. Figure 3As shown in (b), it consists of a U-shaped portion 21 with a height such that the lower end contacts the upper surface of the palm rest portion 1 when covering and pressing between the second joint and the third joint of the finger to be measured, and a flat portion 22 for finger pressing provided on the upper side of the U-shaped portion 21.

[0086] In addition, similar to the finger ring 15 , it is preferable to prepare a plurality of types of finger pressing parts 20 having different widths and heights of the U-shaped parts 21 .

[0087] (H) Another finger pressing portion 23 is pressed toward the palm rest portion 1 by a finger adjacent to the finger performing the measurement operation.

[0088] The other finger pressing unit 23 is used to press the finger adjacent to the finger performing the measurement operation (in Figure 1 (a) The middle finger) is fixed on the upper surface of the palm rest portion 1 with the subject's palm P facing upward, and is used to press the finger adjacent to the finger wearing the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 toward the palm rest portion 1 side, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 As shown in (c), it is composed of a semicircular portion 24 having a height such that the lower end contacts the upper surface of the palm rest portion 1 when covering and pressing the pressing finger, and another flat portion 25 for finger pressing provided in the upper center of the semicircular portion 24.

[0089] In addition, similarly to the finger ring 15 and the finger pressing part 20 , it is preferable to prepare a plurality of types of the other finger pressing parts 23 having different widths and heights of the semicircular ring-shaped parts 24 .

[0090] (I) A finger cuff 26 for inserting the subject's fingertip to stabilize the position of the finger ring 15.

[0091] Finger sleeve 26 is used to make the finger for measuring action (in Figure 1 The position of the finger ring 15 embedded in the fingertip of the index finger in (a) is stable, and the wearability of the finger ring 15 is improved. Figure 3 As shown in (d), an elastic material such as rubber is formed into a dome shape with a closed front end and a plurality of protrusions 27 on the surface.

[0092] In addition, similar to the finger ring 15, it is best to prepare multiple types of finger sleeves 26 with different diameters and sizes. In order to prevent stuffiness, it is more preferable to provide ventilation holes on the side parts.

[0093] In the first use case, the above-mentioned manual muscle strength testing device is used, such as Figure 1 As shown, while instructing the examinee to place their palm P on the upper surface of the palm rest 1 with their palm facing upward, the examinee's index finger is bent at the second joint, the fingertip is moved upward, and then restored. The fingertip movement is measured, thereby determining the condition of the superficial digital flexor muscles. Furthermore, by analyzing the measured values, the condition of the median nerve and the degree of recovery can be evaluated.

[0094] Next, the measurement procedure in the first usage example will be described in detail.

[0095] (Step A1) The finger cuff 26 is placed on the tip of the subject's index finger.

[0096] (Step A2) A finger ring 15 having the same size as the fingertip on which the finger cuff 26 is worn is selected, and the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 using a double-sided tape or an adhesive.

[0097] Furthermore, when the finger ring 15 in which the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 is selected, it is unnecessary to perform the work of fixing the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 .

[0098] (Step A3) Insert the index finger of the subject wearing the finger cuff 26 into the annular portion 16 of the finger ring 15 to which the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed, so that the annular portion 16 is tightly attached between the first joint and the fingertip, and is fixed in such a way that the upper surface of the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the fingertip side are in the same direction.

[0099] (Step A4) After the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed, the subject's palm P is placed upward on the upper surface of the palm rest 1, the other end of the flat belt 9 is passed through the slit 3 on one side and then through the slit 3 on the other side from the lower surface side of the palm rest 1. It is then set on the buckle 10 on the center of the subject's palm P, the length of the flat belt 9 is adjusted, and the palm P is fixed on the upper surface of the palm rest 1.

[0100] Alternatively, instead of using the restraining portion 8 for securing the palm P to the upper surface of the palm rest portion 1 , the examiner's hand H may press the back of the examinee's hand against the palm rest portion 1 to secure the palm P.

[0101] (Step A5) Hang one end of a rubber band 14 on the straps 13 provided on both sides of the finger ring 15, and pass the other end of one rubber band 14 through the hole 2 of the palm rest portion 1 and hang it on any one of the pins 4 in one row (at Figure 1 (b) is the second one from the arm side), the other end of the rubber band 14 on the other side is also hung on the pin 4 at the corresponding position of the other row through the hole 2 of the palm rest part 1.

[0102] In addition, the state in which the two rubber bands 14 are not hung on the pin 4 is referred to as load 0, the state in which the other ends of the two rubber bands 14 are hung on the pin 4 located at a position corresponding to the most contracted state (hereinafter referred to as the "shortest position") is referred to as load 1, the state in which the other ends of the two rubber bands 14 are hung on the pin 4 located one pin closer to the arm side than the shortest position is referred to as load 2, the state in which the other ends of the two rubber bands 14 are hung on the pin 4 located two pins closer to the arm side than the shortest position is referred to as load 3, and the state in which the other ends of the two rubber bands 14 are hung on the pin 4 located three pins closer to the arm side than the shortest position is referred to as load 4.

[0103] (Step A6) The finger pressing portion 20 is pressed toward the palm rest portion 1 while covering the space between the second and third joints of the index finger, and the other finger pressing portion 23 is pressed toward the palm rest portion 1 while covering the middle finger.

[0104] The pressing method can be selected from methods such as using the hand of the person being examined, placing weight on the flat part 22 for finger pressing and the flat part 25 for other finger pressing, fixing the finger pressing part 20 and the flat part 25 for other finger pressing to the upper surface of the palm rest part 1 using an elastic body such as a rubber rope or a component embedded in the hole 2, etc.

[0105] (Step A7) Activate the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 and instruct the subject to bend the second joint of the index finger for 3 seconds, hold it within its maximum range of motion for 3 seconds, and return it to its original position for 3 seconds. Repeat these instructions 5 times to measure the fingertip's motion. After the measurement is complete, deactivate the triaxial acceleration sensor 11.

[0106] Figure 4 It is a perspective view and a side view showing the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 and a second usage example.

[0107] In the second use case, the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 is used, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 As shown, while instructing the examinee to position their palm P horizontally, fix their middle finger, ring finger, and little finger on the upper surface of the palm rest 1, and then spread their index finger relative to the middle finger, move the fingertip upward, and then return it to its original position. The movement of the fingertip is measured, thereby determining the condition of the dorsal interosseous muscles. Furthermore, by analyzing the measured values, the condition of the ulnar nerve and the degree of recovery can be evaluated.

[0108] Next, the measurement procedure in the second usage example will be described in detail.

[0109] (Step B1) A finger ring 15 of a size suitable for the subject's index finger is selected, and the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 using a double-sided tape or an adhesive.

[0110] Furthermore, when the finger ring 15 in which the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 is selected, it is unnecessary to perform the work of fixing the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 .

[0111] Alternatively, as in step A1 above, the finger cuff 26 may be worn on the tip of the subject's index finger. In this case, a finger ring 15 having the same size as the fingertip on which the finger cuff 26 is worn is selected.

[0112] (Step B2) Insert the subject's index finger into the annular portion 16 of the finger ring 15 to which the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed, so that the annular portion 16 is tightly attached between the first joint and the fingertip, and is fixed in such a way that the upper surface of the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the thumb side of the fingertip are in the same direction.

[0113] (Step B3) After the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed, the subject's palm P is placed horizontally on the upper surface of the palm rest 1, and the middle finger, ring finger, and little finger are fixed on the upper surface of the palm rest 1.

[0114] like Figure 4 As shown in (a), the middle finger, ring finger, and little finger can be fixed by the hand H of the person being examined, or a slit similar to the slit 3 can be provided at an appropriate position on the palm rest portion 1. The restraining portion 8 is used in the same manner as in step A4 above. After the other end of the flat belt 9 is passed through the two slits, it is attached to the buckle 10 near the ring finger of the palm P of the person being examined, and the length of the flat belt 9 is adjusted.

[0115] (Step B4) Hang one end of a rubber band 14 on the straps 13 provided on both sides of the finger ring 15, and pass the other end of one rubber band 14 through the hole 2 of the palm rest portion 1 and hang it on any one of the pins 4 in one row. Figure 4 (b) is the second one from the fingertip side), the other end of the other rubber band 14 is also passed through the hole 2 of the palm rest portion 1 and hung on the pin 4 located at a position corresponding to the other row.

[0116] Note that the definitions of loads 0 to 3 are the same as those described in the above step A5.

[0117] (Step B5) After attaching two rubber bands 14 to pin 4, activate the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 and instruct the subject to spread their entire index finger relative to their middle finger over three seconds, hold it within its maximum range of motion for three seconds, and then return it to its original position over another three seconds. Repeat these instructions five times, measuring the fingertip movement. After the measurement is complete, deactivate the triaxial acceleration sensor 11.

[0118] Figure 5 It is a perspective view and a side view showing the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 and a third usage example.

[0119] In the third use example, the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 1 is used, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, the examinee is instructed to place their palm P facing downward, with the second joint of the index finger slightly extended forward from the side wall 5, on the upper surface of the palm rest 1. The examinee's index finger, bent 90 degrees at the second joint, is then straightened and restored. The fingertip movement is measured, thereby determining the condition of the extensor digitorum commonis muscle. Furthermore, by analyzing the measured values, the condition and degree of recovery of the radial nerve can be evaluated.

[0120] Next, the measurement procedure in the third usage example will be described in detail.

[0121] (Step C1) A finger ring 15 of a size suitable for the subject's index finger is selected, and the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 using double-sided tape or adhesive.

[0122] Furthermore, when the finger ring 15 in which the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 is selected, it is unnecessary to perform the work of fixing the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 .

[0123] Alternatively, as in step A1 above, the finger cuff 26 may be worn on the tip of the subject's index finger. In this case, a finger ring 15 having the same size as the fingertip on which the finger cuff 26 is worn is selected.

[0124] (Step C2) Insert the subject's index finger into the annular portion 16 of the finger ring 15 to which the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed, so that the annular portion 16 is tightly attached between the first joint and the fingertip, and is fixed in such a way that the upper surface of the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the nail side of the fingertip are in the same direction.

[0125] (Step C3 ) After the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed, the subject's palm P is placed facing downward on the upper surface of the palm rest 1 and fixed to the upper surface of the palm rest 1 .

[0126] The palm P can be fixed by the hand of the person being examined in the same manner as in step B3 above, or a slit similar to the slit 3 can be provided at an appropriate position on the palm rest portion 1, and the restraint portion 8 can be used in the same manner as in step A4 above. After the other end of the flat belt 9 is passed through the two slits, it is installed on the buckle 10 near the third joint of the middle finger of the person being examined, and the length of the flat belt 9 is adjusted.

[0127] (Step C4) Hang one end of a rubber band 14 on the straps 13 provided on both sides of the finger ring 15, and pass the other end of one rubber band 14 through the opening 6 of the side wall 5 and hang it on any one of the pins 4 in one row. Figure 5In (b), the fourth one from the fingertip side, the other end of the rubber band 14 also passes through the opening 6 of the side wall portion 5 and is hung on the pin 4 located at a position corresponding to the other row.

[0128] Note that the definitions of loads 0 to 3 are the same as those described in the above step A5.

[0129] Alternatively, after the rubber band 14 is hung on the pin 4 , the finger pressing portion 20 may be placed between the second and third joints of the index finger and pressed toward the palm rest portion 1 in the same manner as in step A6 .

[0130] (Step C5)

[0131] After attaching two rubber bands 14 to pin 4, activate the triaxial accelerometer 11 and instruct the subject to straighten their index finger from a 90-degree bend at the second joint for three seconds, hold it within its maximum range of motion for three seconds, and return it to its original position for another three seconds. Repeat these instructions five times, measuring the fingertip's motion. After the measurement is complete, deactivate the triaxial accelerometer 11.

[0132] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing the relationship between the displacement amount and the amplitude δ based on the output of the acceleration sensor 11 .

[0133] As described above, through steps A1 to A7 of the first usage example, the palm P of the examinee is fixed upward on the upper surface of the palm rest 1, and the movement of the fingertip when the index finger is bent and straightened at the second joint can be measured. Through steps B1 to B6 of the second usage example, the middle finger, ring finger and little finger are fixed on the upper surface of the palm rest 1 with the palm P of the examinee in a horizontal state, and the movement of the fingertip when the index finger as a whole is opened and closed relative to the middle finger can be measured. Through steps C1 to C6 of the third usage example, the palm P of the examinee is fixed downward on the upper surface of the palm rest 1, and the movement of the fingertip when the index finger is straightened and bent from a state of being bent 90 degrees at the second joint can be measured. By analyzing these measurement values, the state and recovery degree of the median nerve, ulnar nerve and radial nerve can be evaluated.

[0134] Furthermore, in any of the first to third use cases, although the amplitudes are different, if the horizontal axis of the fingertip movement is plotted as the time axis and the vertical axis is plotted as the displacement in the Y-axis direction based on the measurement data sent from the acceleration sensor 11, the result is: Figure 6 That shape.

[0135] Therefore, in the analysis of the measurement data obtained from the first to third usage examples, the position before the fingertip is moved is set as the initial value y0, the position where the fingertip is moved and maintained in the maximum movable area for 3 seconds is set as the holding value y, the difference between the initial value y0 and the holding value y (y0-y) is calculated to measure the amplitude δ, and the average value δa of the amplitude δ is calculated a total of 5 times, thereby evaluating the status and recovery degree of the median nerve, ulnar nerve, and radial nerve.

[0136] Figure 7 : is a graph showing the δa value of the median nerve obtained in the first usage example.

[0137] Figure 7 (a) is a graph plotting the dispersion of δa at load 0 and δa at loads 1 to 4 for each subject. The horizontal axis of the graph represents δa without load, and the vertical axis represents δa with load.

[0138] In addition, the subjects depicted by circles are those who were previously evaluated by doctors as MMT5 (normal), the subjects depicted by quadrilaterals are those who were similarly evaluated as MMT4 (good), and the subjects depicted by triangles are those who were similarly evaluated as MMT3 (acceptable).

[0139] in addition, Figure 7 (b) is a graph comparing the transition of the approximate line for δa at loads 0 to 4 for each group of subjects who were previously evaluated by a doctor as having MMT 3 to 5.

[0140] As can be seen from these graphs, the MMT5 subject group has δa exceeding 1 in most cases at any of the loads 0 to 4, and is plotted at Figure 7 In the upper right area of ​​(a), the MMT4 subject group has a value of δa close to 1 under loads 0 to 4, but Figure 7 (a) It can be seen that there is a deviation between the subjects close to MMT5 and the subjects close to MMT3. It can be seen that the subject (one person) of MMT3 can move the fingertips to a certain extent under load 1, which is a state with the same characteristics as the judgment standard of MMT3 (the state in which a force is applied to the extent that the joint can move even against gravity).

[0141] From the above insights, Figure 7 When the dispersion of δa for load 0 and δa for loads 1 to 4 is plotted in the coordinate graph of (a), the following possibilities are high: if it is plotted in the upper right area, it belongs to the MMT5 group; if it is plotted between the upper right area and the lower left area, it belongs to the MMT4 group; if it is plotted in the lower left area, it belongs to the MMT3 group.

[0142] Furthermore, the MMT4 group has a large deviation, which is difficult for even doctors to distinguish. Figure 7The graph (a) plots the dispersion of δa at load 0 and δa at loads 1 to 4, making it possible to distinguish whether the group is close to MMT5 or close to MMT3. Therefore, it is possible to perform a more detailed evaluation than the conventional six-stage evaluation.

[0143] Figure 8 : is a graph showing the δa value of the ulnar nerve obtained in the second usage example.

[0144] Figure 8 (a) is a graph that plots the dispersion of δa at load 0 and δa at loads 1 to 3 for each subject. The horizontal axis of the graph represents δa without load, and the vertical axis represents δa with load. a .

[0145] In addition, the shapes of circles, quadrilaterals and triangles are Figure 7 (a) is the same as that of the subjects who were evaluated by the doctor as MMT5, MMT4 and MMT3 respectively.

[0146] in addition, Figure 8 (b) is a graph comparing the transition of the approximate line for δa at loads 0 to 3 for each group of subjects who were previously evaluated by a doctor as having MMT 3 to 5.

[0147] As can be seen from these graphs, the MMT5 subject group has δa exceeding 0.7 in most cases at any of the loads 0 to 3, and is plotted at Figure 8 In the upper right area of ​​(a), the subjects of the MMT4 group mostly have δa in the range of 0.4 to 0.6 under loads 0 to 3, but according to Figure 8 (a) It can be seen that there is a large deviation from the subjects close to MMT5 to the subjects close to MMT3. The fact that the subject (one person) with MMT3 can move the fingertips to a certain extent under load 1 shows that it is a state with the same characteristics as the judgment standard of MMT3 (the state in which a force is applied to the extent that the joint can move even against gravity).

[0148] From the above insights, Figure 8 When the dispersion of δa for load 0 and δa for loads 1 to 3 is plotted in the coordinate graph of (a), the following possibilities are high: if it is plotted in the upper right area, it belongs to the MMT5 group; if it is plotted between the upper right area and the lower left area, it belongs to the MMT4 group; if it is plotted in the lower left area, it belongs to the MMT3 group.

[0149] In addition, it was found that the δa values ​​of the subject groups of MMT4 and MMT3 decreased as the load increased.

[0150] Moreover, the MMT4 group can be said to be Figure 7 The same deviation is large, even doctors find it difficult to judge, but through Figure 8 The graph (a) plots the dispersion of δa at load 0 and δa at loads 1 to 3, making it possible to distinguish whether the group is close to MMT5 or close to MMT3, thus potentially enabling more detailed evaluation than the conventional six-stage evaluation.

[0151] Figure 9 : is a graph showing the δa value of the radial nerve obtained in the third usage example.

[0152] Figure 9 (a) is a graph that plots the dispersion of δa at load 0 and δa at loads 1 to 2 for each subject. The horizontal axis of the graph represents δa without load, and the vertical axis represents δa with load. a .

[0153] In addition, the shapes of circles, quadrilaterals and triangles are Figure 7 (a) is the same as that of the subjects who were evaluated by the doctor as MMT5, MMT4 and MMT3 respectively.

[0154] in addition, Figure 9 (b) is a graph comparing the transition of the approximate line for δa at loads 0 to 2 for each group of subjects whose MMTs were previously evaluated by a doctor as 3 to 5.

[0155] As can be seen from these graphs, the MMT5 subject group has a value of δa of about 1.2 at any of the loads 0 to 1, and a value of δa of about 1 at load 2. Figure 9 In the upper right area of ​​(a), the subjects of MMT4 and MMT3 have a δa of about 1 at load 0, but a sharp decrease from 0.4 to about 0.1 at loads 1 to 2. Figure 9 (a) It can be seen that the δa under load is lower than that of the subject group of MMT5. It can be seen that the δa of the subject group of MMT3 under loads of 0 to 2 is lower than that of the subject group of MMT4. a Low.

[0156] From the above insights, Figure 9 When the dispersion of δa for load 0 and δa for loads 1 to 3 is plotted in the coordinate graph of (a), the following possibilities are high: if it is plotted in the upper right area, it belongs to the MMT5 group; if it is plotted in the area from the lower center to the lower right, it belongs to the MMT4 group; if it is plotted in the lower left area, it belongs to the MMT3 group.

[0157] Furthermore, when evaluating the degree of recovery of the radial nerve according to the third usage example, it is considered that a smaller load should be applied to obtain the δa value, and it can be seen that the method of applying the load is important.

[0158] Example 2

[0159] Figure 10 2 is a perspective view showing the structure of a manual muscle strength testing device according to Example 2. Figure 11 1 is a diagram showing a state where a ring is worn on the index finger and the ring in Example 2. Figure 12 These are diagrams showing first to third usage examples of the manual muscle strength testing device according to the second embodiment.

[0160] like Figures 10-12 As shown, the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 2 includes the following structures (J) to (N). In addition, since some structures are the same as those of Example 1, the same reference numerals are used for the common structures and the description is sometimes simplified.

[0161] (J) The finger insertion portion 30 is composed of another finger fixing portion 28 and an index finger insertion portion 29. The other finger fixing portion 28 can be inserted with the middle finger, ring finger and little finger of the subject, and has a space shaped so that the inserted middle finger, ring finger and little finger cannot move in any direction; the index finger insertion portion 29 can be inserted with the index finger of the subject, and has a space shaped so that the inserted index finger can move toward the fingertip side or the thumb side or toward the nail side or the thumb side.

[0162] The other finger fixing portion 28 is a rectangular tube shape into which the middle finger, ring finger, and little finger can be inserted from both sides, and the index finger insertion portion 29 is a tube shape having an L-shaped cross section into which the index finger can be inserted from both sides.

[0163] Furthermore, since finger sizes vary from person to person, the width and thickness of the middle finger, ring finger, and little finger when aligned are particularly taken into consideration, and a plurality of finger insertion portions 30 having different lengths and heights of the other finger fixing portions 28 are prepared.

[0164] (K) A load elastic body 31 that can be inserted and fixed to the protruding portion of the index finger insertion portion 29 and can be attached or detached.

[0165] The load elastic body 31 corresponds to the load applying portion 12 (particularly the two rubber bands 14) in the first embodiment, and is formed by using elastic bodies of various softness (in Figure 10 The middle part is a sponge) and can apply an adjustable load to the fingertips.

[0166] In addition, Figure 10 In the embodiment, since the cross section of the protruding portion of the index finger insertion portion 29 is arched, the load elastic body 31 also becomes a Naruto roll shape, but the cross section of the protruding portion of the index finger insertion portion 29 can also be a U-shaped portion. In this case, the load elastic body 31 becomes a prism shape.

[0167] (L) A three-axis acceleration sensor 11 that measures the movement of a fingertip and transmits the measurement data.

[0168] For details of the three-axis acceleration sensor 11, refer to (D) of Example 1.

[0169] (M) A pressure sensor 32 that measures the magnitude of the load applied to the fingertip and transmits the measurement data.

[0170] exist Figure 11 In (C), since the pressure sensor 32 is fixed to the fingertip side of the subject's index finger, as described later, Figure 12 As shown in FIG. 5A , when the tip of the index finger is moved toward the base of the finger inside the index finger insertion portion 29 , the pressure sensor 32 receives a repulsive force from the load elastic body 31 .

[0171] Therefore, when the analysis unit (not shown) receives the pressure measurement data measured by the pressure sensor 32 and processes and analyzes it, the magnitude of the pressure applied to the fingertip side can be confirmed.

[0172] In addition, in Example 2, Figure 11 As shown in (A), in order to send the acceleration measurement data and pressure measurement data measured by the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32, a data sending component 33 is worn on the wrist of the subject, and the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are connected to the data sending component 33 via a signal transmission line 34.

[0173] (N) A finger ring 35 for fixing the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 on the fingertip.

[0174] like Figure 11 As shown in (B), similar to the finger ring 15 described in (F) of Example 1, the finger ring 35 has an annular portion into which the tip of the subject's index finger can be inserted, and an upper surface side sensor fixing portion 36 arranged at a position facing the slit of the annular portion, and also has a lower surface side sensor fixing portion 37 fixed to one side of the slit of the annular portion (the left side of the figure), and a side side sensor fixing portion 38 fixed to one side of the side of the annular portion (the right side of the figure).

[0175] Furthermore, in the first and third usage examples described later, the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to one of the upper surface side sensor fixing portion 36 and the lower surface side sensor fixing portion 37, and the pressure sensor 32 is fixed to the other side, so that the movement of the fingertip and the pressure applied to the fingertip side of the fingertip in the first usage example and the nail side of the fingertip in the third usage example are measured. In the second usage example described later, the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to either the upper surface side sensor fixing portion 36 or the lower surface side sensor fixing portion 37, and the pressure sensor 32 is fixed to the side side sensor fixing portion 38, so that the movement of the fingertip and the pressure of the thumb applied to the fingertip are measured.

[0176] In addition, in order to stabilize the position of the finger ring 35, the method described in (I) of Example 1 and described in (I) of Example 1 can also be used. Figure 3 (d) The finger sleeve 26 is shown.

[0177] Figure 12 (A) is a diagram showing a first usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the second embodiment.

[0178] In the first usage example of Example 2, after the load-bearing elastic body 31 with appropriate softness is inserted and fixed in the protruding part of the index finger insertion part 29, the palm P of the subject faces upward, and the middle finger, ring finger and little finger are inserted into the other finger fixing parts 28, and the index finger is inserted into the index finger insertion part 29.

[0179] Then, by instructing the index finger to bend at the second joint and move the fingertip upward (in the direction of the arrow) before returning to normal, the movement of the fingertip and the pressure applied to the pad of the fingertip are measured to determine the condition of the superficial digital flexor muscles. Furthermore, by analyzing these measured values, the condition and degree of recovery of the median nerve can be evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0180] In addition, regarding the steps corresponding to steps A1 to A4 of the measurement in the first usage example of Example 1, in the case of the first usage example of Example 2, it is only necessary to wear the ring 35 with the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 fixed on the index finger of the subject, insert the middle finger, ring finger and little finger into the other finger fixing parts 28, and insert the index finger into the index finger insertion part 29 to complete the process, so it is simpler than Example 1.

[0181] In addition, regarding the steps corresponding to step A5 of the measurement in the first usage example of Example 1, in the case of the first usage example of Example 2, the state in which the load elastic body 31 is not inserted becomes load 0, the state in which the softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 1, the state in which the second softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 2, the state in which the third softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 3, and the state in which the fourth softest (hardest) load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 4.

[0182] Moreover, regarding the steps corresponding to steps A6 and A7 of the measurement in the first usage example of Example 1, in the case of the first usage example of Example 2, step A6 can be omitted, the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are started, and instructions are given to the subject to bend the second joint of the index finger for 3 seconds, hold it in the maximum movable range for 3 seconds and recover it for 3 seconds, repeat these instructions 5 times, measure the movement of the fingertip, and measure the pressure applied to the pad side of the fingertip, and stop the sensor 32 and the acceleration sensor 11 after the measurement is completed. Therefore, it is roughly the same as step A7 of Example 1.

[0183] Figure 12 (B) is a diagram showing a second usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the second embodiment.

[0184] In the second usage example of Example 2, after a load-bearing elastic body 31 having appropriate softness is inserted and fixed in the protruding part of the index finger insertion part 29, the middle finger, ring finger and little finger are inserted into the other finger fixing parts 28, and the index finger is inserted into the index finger insertion part 29 while the palm P of the subject is in a horizontal state.

[0185] Then, by instructing the user to open the entire index finger relative to the middle finger, move the fingertip upward (in the direction of the arrow), and then return it to its original position, the user measures the fingertip movement and the pressure applied to the thumb side of the fingertip to determine the condition of the dorsal interosseous muscles. Furthermore, by analyzing these measured values, the condition and degree of recovery of the ulnar nerve can be evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0186] In addition, regarding the steps corresponding to steps B1 to B3 of the measurement in the second usage example of Example 1, in the case of the second usage example of Example 2, the subject only needs to wear the ring 35 with the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 fixed on the index finger, insert the middle finger, ring finger and little finger into the other finger fixing parts 28, and insert the index finger into the index finger insertion part 29 to complete the process, so it is simpler than Example 1.

[0187] In addition, regarding the step corresponding to step B4 of the measurement in the second usage example of Example 1, in the case of the second usage example of Example 2, as in the case of the first usage example of Example 2, the state in which the load elastic body 31 is not inserted becomes load 0, the state in which the softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 1, the state in which the second softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 2, the state in which the third softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 3, and the state in which the fourth softest (hardest) load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 4.

[0188] Moreover, regarding the steps corresponding to step B5 of the measurement in the second use case of Example 1, in the case of the second use case of Example 2, the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are started, and instructions are given to the subject to open the index finger as a whole relative to the middle finger for 3 seconds, keep it in the maximum movable area for 3 seconds, and restore it for 3 seconds, repeat these instructions 5 times, measure the movement of the fingertip, and measure the pressure applied to the thumb side of the fingertip. After the measurement is completed, the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are stopped. Therefore, it is roughly the same as step B5 of Example 1.

[0189] Figure 12(C) is a diagram showing a third usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the second embodiment.

[0190] In the third usage example of Example 2, after a load-bearing elastic body 31 having appropriate softness is inserted and fixed in the protruding part of the index finger insertion part 29, the middle finger, ring finger and little finger are inserted into the other finger fixing parts 28, and the index finger is inserted into the index finger insertion part 29 with the palm P of the subject facing downward.

[0191] Then, by instructing the fingertip to straighten in the direction of the arrow from a 90-degree flexion at the second joint of the index finger and then recover, the fingertip movement and the pressure applied to the nail side of the fingertip were measured to determine the condition of the extensor digitorum commonis muscle. Furthermore, by analyzing these measured values, the condition and degree of recovery of the radial nerve could be evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0192] In addition, regarding the steps corresponding to steps C1 to C3 of the measurement in the third usage example of Example 1, in the case of the third usage example of Example 2, the subject only needs to wear the ring 35 with the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 fixed on the index finger, insert the middle finger, ring finger and little finger into the other finger fixing parts 28, and insert the index finger into the index finger insertion part 29 to complete the process, so it is simpler than Example 1.

[0193] In addition, regarding the step corresponding to step C4 of the measurement in the third usage example of Example 1, in the case of the third usage example of Example 2, as in the case of the first usage example of Example 2, the state in which the load elastic body 31 is not inserted becomes load 0, the state in which the softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 1, the state in which the second softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 2, the state in which the third softest load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed becomes load 3, and the state in which the fourth softest (hardest) load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed is load 4.

[0194] Moreover, regarding the step corresponding to step C5 of the measurement in the third use case of Example 1, in the third use case of Example 2, the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are started, and instructions are given to the subject to straighten the index finger from a state of being bent 90 degrees at the second joint for 3 seconds, maintain it in the maximum movable range for 3 seconds, and recover it for 3 seconds, and these instructions are repeated 5 times, the movement of the fingertip is measured, and the 3-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are stopped after the measurement is completed, so it is roughly the same as Example 1.

[0195] Example 3

[0196] Figure 13 3 is a perspective view showing the structure of a manual muscle strength testing device according to Example 3. Figure 14These are diagrams showing first to sixth usage examples of the manual muscle strength testing device according to the third embodiment.

[0197] like Figure 13 and 14 As shown, the manual muscle strength testing device of Example 3 has the following structures (O) to (S). In addition, since part of the structure is the same as that of Example 1 or 2, the same figure mark is sometimes used for the common structure to simplify the description. Figure 11 The three-axis acceleration sensor 11, the pressure sensor 32, and the finger ring 35 for fixing them are the same as those in the second embodiment, and therefore their description is omitted (see (L) to (N) of the second embodiment).

[0198] (O) The finger insertion portion 40 is composed of another finger fixing portion 28 and an index finger insertion portion 39. The other finger fixing portion 28 can be inserted with the middle finger, ring finger and little finger of the examinee and has a space shaped so that the inserted middle finger, ring finger and little finger cannot move in any direction; the index finger insertion portion 39 can be inserted with the index finger of the examinee and has a space shaped so that the inserted index finger can move toward the fingertip side, the thumb side or the nail side.

[0199] In addition, the other finger fixing portion 28 is the same structure as that of the second embodiment, and the index finger insertion portion 39 is as shown in FIG. Figure 13 As shown in (A), it is a cylindrical T-shaped cross section that can be inserted from both sides of the index finger.

[0200] Furthermore, since the size of fingers varies from person to person, similarly to the finger insertion portion 30 of the second embodiment, a plurality of finger insertion portions 40 having lengths and heights different from those of the other finger fixing portions 28 are prepared.

[0201] (P) A load elastic body 31 that can be inserted and fixed to the protruding portion of the index finger insertion portion 39 except for the portion adjacent to the other finger fixing portion 28 and can be attached and detached. For details, refer to (K) of Example 2. In addition, Figure 13 (B) is a diagram showing a state where the load elastic body 31 is inserted and fixed to all the protruding portions.

[0202] (Q) A load annular elastic body 41 having one end fixed to the end of the protruding portion of the index finger insertion portion 39 excluding the portion adjacent to the other finger fixing portion 28 and the other end hooked and fixed to the pressure sensor 32 .

[0203] Figure 13 (C) is a diagram showing the overall shape and fixed state of the load annular elastic body 41.

[0204] (R) A bag-shaped other finger fixing portion 42 (see FIG. 4 ) that can be inserted with the subject's middle finger, ring finger, and little finger and has a space that prevents the inserted middle finger, ring finger, and little finger from moving in any direction. Figure 14 (E)).

[0205] (S) A load-carrying belt-shaped elastic body 43 (see FIG. 1 ) capable of fixing one end to the outside of the little finger insertion portion of the bag-shaped other finger fixing portion 42 and hooking the other end to the pressure sensor 32 for fixing. Figure 14 (E)).

[0206] Figure 14 (A) is a diagram showing a first usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the third embodiment.

[0207] In the first usage example of Example 3, after the load-bearing elastic body 31 with appropriate softness is inserted and fixed in the protruding part of the index finger insertion part 39, the palm P of the subject is facing upward, the middle finger, ring finger and little finger are inserted into the other finger fixing parts 28, and the index finger is inserted into the index finger insertion part 39.

[0208] Then, the subsequent method of moving the index finger, the determination of the state of the superficial digital flexor muscle, the evaluation of the state and degree of recovery of the median nerve based on the analysis of the measured values, and the correspondence and comparison with steps A1 to A7 of the measurement in the first usage example of Example 1 are exactly the same as the first usage example of Example 2.

[0209] Figure 14 (B) is a diagram showing a second usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the third embodiment.

[0210] In the second usage example of Example 3, after the load-bearing elastic body 31 with appropriate softness is inserted and fixed in the protruding part of the index finger insertion part 39, the middle finger, ring finger and little finger are inserted into the other finger fixing parts 28, and the index finger is inserted into the index finger insertion part 39 while the palm P of the subject is in a horizontal state.

[0211] Then, the subsequent method of moving the index finger, the determination of the state of the dorsal interosseous muscles, the evaluation of the state and degree of recovery of the ulnar nerve based on the analysis of the measured values, and the correspondence and comparison with steps B1 to B5 of the measurement in the second use case of Example 1 are exactly the same as the second use case of Example 2.

[0212] Figure 14 (C) is a diagram showing a third usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the third embodiment.

[0213] In the third usage example of Example 3, after the load-bearing elastic body 31 with appropriate softness is inserted and fixed in the protruding part of the index finger insertion part 39, the middle finger, ring finger and little finger are inserted into the other finger fixing parts 28, and the index finger is inserted into the index finger insertion part 39 with the palm P of the subject facing downward.

[0214] Then, the subsequent method of moving the index finger, the determination of the state of the extensor digitorum commonis muscle, the evaluation of the state and degree of recovery of the radial nerve based on the analysis of the measured values, and the correspondence and comparison with steps C1 to C5 of the measurement in the third usage example of Example 1 are exactly the same as the third usage example of Example 2.

[0215] Figure 14 (D) is a diagram showing a fourth usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the third embodiment.

[0216] The fourth use case of Example 3 shares a commonality with the first use case of the manual muscle strength testing device of Examples 2 and 3 in that it enables evaluation of the state and degree of recovery of the median nerve based on determination of the state of the superficial digital flexor muscles and analysis of measured values. Furthermore, in both first use cases, after inserting and securing a load elastic body 31 having appropriate flexibility into the protruding portion of the index finger insertion section 29 or 39, a finger other than the thumb of the examinee is inserted into the finger insertion section 30 or 40. The load elastic body 31 is contracted while the index finger is moved to measure fingertip movement. In contrast, in the fourth use case of Example 3, one end of a load annular elastic body 41 is secured to the end of the protruding portion of the index finger insertion section 39, the other end is hooked onto the pressure sensor 32, a finger other than the thumb of the examinee is inserted into the finger insertion section 40, and the load annular elastic body 41 is extended while the index finger is moved to measure fingertip movement.

[0217] In addition, the method of moving the index finger after inserting the fingers other than the thumb into the finger insertion part 40, the state determination of the superficial digital flexor muscle, the evaluation of the state and recovery degree of the median nerve based on the analysis of the measured values, and the correspondence or comparison with steps A1 to A7 of the measurement in the first use case of Example 1 are roughly the same as those in the first use case of Example 2. However, regarding the step corresponding to step A5, in the fourth use case of Example 3, the state in which the other end of the load annular elastic body 41 is not hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 0, the state in which one end of the softest load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 1, the state in which one end of the second softest load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 2, the state in which one end of the third softest load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 3, and the state in which one end of the fourth softest (hardest) load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 4.

[0218] Figure 14 (E) is a diagram showing a fifth usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the third embodiment.

[0219] The fifth use case of Example 3 shares a commonality with the second use case of the manual muscle strength testing device of Examples 2 and 3 in that it enables evaluation of the state and degree of recovery of the ulnar nerve based on determination of the state of the dorsal interosseous muscles and analysis of the measured values. Furthermore, in both second use cases, after inserting a load elastic body 31 having appropriate flexibility into the protruding portion fixed to the index finger insertion section 29 or 39, the subject's fingers other than the thumb are inserted into the finger insertion section 30 or 40. While contracting the load elastic body 31, the index finger is moved to measure fingertip movement. In contrast, in the fifth use case of Example 3, the subject's middle finger, ring finger, and little finger are inserted into the bag-shaped other finger fixing section 42 to which one end of a load ribbon elastic body 43 is fixed. After hooking the other end of the load ribbon elastic body 43 onto the pressure sensor 32, the load ribbon elastic body 43 is extended while the index finger is moved to measure fingertip movement.

[0220] In addition, the method of moving the index finger, the determination of the state of the dorsal interosseous muscles, the evaluation of the state and recovery degree of the ulnar nerve based on the analysis of the measured values, and the correspondence or comparison with steps B1 to B5 of the measurement in the second use case of Example 1 are roughly the same as those in the second use case of Example 2, but with respect to the step corresponding to step B4, in the case of the fifth use case of Example 3, the state in which the other end of the load-bearing elastic band 43 is not hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 0, the state in which the other end of the softest load-bearing elastic band 43 is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 1, the state in which the other end of the second softest load-bearing elastic band 43 is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 2, the state in which the other end of the third softest load-bearing elastic band 43 is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 3, and the state in which the other end of the fourth softest (hardest) load-bearing elastic band 43 is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 4.

[0221] Figure 14 (F) is a diagram showing a sixth usage example of the manual muscle strength testing device of the third embodiment.

[0222] The sixth use case of Example 3 shares a commonality with the third use case of the manual muscle strength testing device of Examples 2 and 3 in that it enables evaluation of the radial nerve's condition and degree of recovery based on determination of the condition of the extensor digitorum commonis and analysis of measured values. Furthermore, in both third use cases, after inserting and securing a load elastic body 31 having appropriate flexibility into the protruding portion of the index finger insertion section 29 or 39, the subject's finger other than the thumb is inserted into the finger insertion section 30 or 40. The load elastic body 31 is contracted while the index finger is moved, and the fingertip movement is measured. In contrast, in the sixth use case of Example 3, after securing one end of a load annular elastic body 41 to the end of the protruding portion of the index finger insertion section 39 and hooking the other end onto the pressure sensor 32, the subject's finger other than the thumb is inserted into the finger insertion section 40. The load annular elastic body 41 is extended while the index finger is moved, and the fingertip movement is measured.

[0223] In addition, the method of moving the index finger after inserting fingers other than the thumb into the finger insertion part 40, the determination of the state of the extensor digitorum commonis muscle, the evaluation of the state and recovery degree of the radial nerve based on the analysis of the measured values, and the correspondence and comparison with steps C1 to C5 of the measurement in the third use case of Example 1 are roughly the same as those in the third use case of Example 2. However, regarding the step corresponding to step C4, in the case of the sixth use case of Example 3, the state in which the other end of the load annular elastic body 41 is not hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 0, the state in which one end of the softest load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 1, the state in which one end of the second softest load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 2, the state in which one end of the third softest load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 3, and the state in which one end of the fourth softest (hardest) load annular elastic body 41 is fixed and the other end is hooked on the pressure sensor 32 becomes load 4.

[0224] (Variations of Examples 1 to 3)

[0225] Modifications of the manual muscle strength testing devices of Examples 1 to 3 are listed below.

[0226] (1) The side wall portion 5 of Example 1 has an opening 6 in the center portion, but a plurality of holes through which a rubber band can pass can be provided in the same manner as in the palm rest portion 1, and the end of the rubber band 14 can be hung on the head of the pin 4 protruding toward the lower surface side of the plate-like body constituting the palm rest portion 1.

[0227] (2) The restraining portion 8 of the first embodiment includes the buckle 10 at one end of the flat belt 9 , but may also be an elastic belt detachable from the upper surface of the palm rest portion 1 or a palm pressing portion of various sizes.

[0228] (3) In the first embodiment, the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is used, but the displacement in one axis is measured in relation to the movement of the fingertip (for example, Figure 6 In the case of measuring the displacement in the Y-axis direction as shown in the figure, a 1-axis acceleration sensor or a 2-axis acceleration sensor may be used. In the case of measuring the displacement in two axes regarding the movement of the fingertip, a 2-axis acceleration sensor may be used.

[0229] Furthermore, since a tilt sensor or a gyro sensor may also be used, they are collectively referred to as "inertial sensors" in the claims.

[0230] (4) The load applying portion 12 of Example 1 is composed of a binding belt 13, two rubber bands 14 and pins 4 fixed to two rows of seven holes 2, but it can also be composed of an adjustable load applying mechanism provided on the palm rest portion 1 or the side wall portion 5, and the adjustable load applying mechanism is composed of an elastic member or solenoid that can apply an adjustable load to any one of the fingertip for measuring movement, the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the finger ring 15 toward the palm rest portion 1 side or the side wall portion 5 side.

[0231] Furthermore, weights of different weights may be attached to and detached from the triaxial acceleration sensor 11 or the finger ring 15 to serve as an adjustable load applying mechanism.

[0232] Furthermore, when such an adjustable load applying mechanism is used as the load applying portion, the hole 2 provided in the palm rest portion 1 or the opening 6 provided in the side wall portion 5 may not be necessary.

[0233] (5) In Example 1, the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 of the finger ring 15 using double-sided tape or adhesive. However, if a structure is adopted in which the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the sensor fixing portion 18 in a detachable manner, the convenience of use will be further improved.

[0234] (6) In the first to third usage examples of Examples 1 to 3 and the fourth to sixth usage examples of Example 3, the status of the superficial flexor digitorum, dorsal interosseous muscles and extensor digitorum commonis muscles were determined, and the status and degree of recovery of the median nerve, ulnar nerve and radial nerve were evaluated respectively. However, the median nerve can also determine the status of the opponens pollicis (muscles that press the thumb and index finger together) or the abductor thumb brevis (muscle that extends the thumb), the ulnar nerve can also determine the status of the opponens digiti minimi (muscles that press the thumb and little finger together) or the flexor digitorum profundus (muscles that bend the little finger or ring finger), and the radial nerve can also determine the status of the wrist extensor (muscles that lift the entire back of the hand).

[0235] (7) In Example 2, the positions at which the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are fixed in the first and third usage examples are different from the positions at which the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 and the pressure sensor 32 are fixed in the second usage example. However, as long as a fixing portion for the acceleration sensor is provided at a position facing the side sensor fixing portion 38 of the finger ring 35, the three-axis acceleration sensor 11 is fixed to the acceleration sensor fixing portion in any usage example, and the pressure sensor 32 is fixed to all the upper surface sensor fixing portions 36, the lower surface sensor fixing portions 37, and the side sensor fixing portions 38, the measurements in the first to third usage examples can be performed while the finger ring 35 is initially worn on the fingertip.

[0236] Furthermore, in the third embodiment, all the measurements in the first to sixth use cases can be performed by temporarily wearing the ring 35 on the fingertip. In particular, in the case of the first to third use cases, as shown in FIG. Figure 14 As shown in (A) to (C), the relationship between the subject's palm P and the finger insertion part 40 is the same, except that the orientation of the palm P and the direction of the active index finger are different. After the subject's fingers other than the thumb are inserted into the finger insertion part 40, the examinations of the first to third usage examples can be continued, thereby greatly shortening the examination time.

[0237] (8) In Examples 2 and 3, the pressure sensor 32 is fixed to the finger ring 35 to measure the magnitude of the load applied to the fingertip. However, as long as the magnitude of the load borne by the fingertip from the load-bearing elastic body 31, the load-bearing annular elastic body 41, and the load-bearing belt elastic body 43 is measured in advance and the magnitude is determined according to the softness of the elastic body, the pressure sensor 32 may not be provided.

[0238] Description of Reference Signs

[0239] 1 Palm rest 2 Hole 3 Slit 4 Pin 5 Side wall

[0240] 6 opening 7 leg 8 restraint 9 flat belt 10 buckle

[0241] 11 triaxial acceleration sensor 12 load applying unit 13 rubber band mounting unit

[0242] 14 rubber band 15 finger ring 16 ring portion 17 slit

[0243] 18 sensor fixing portion 19 through hole 20 finger pressing portion 21 U-shaped portion

[0244] 22 Finger pressing flat portion 23 Other finger pressing portion 24 Semicircular ring portion

[0245] 25 Other flat parts for pressing with fingers 26 Finger sleeves 27 Protrusions

[0246] 28 Other finger fixing portion 29 Index finger insertion portion 30 Finger insertion portion

[0247] 31 Load elastic body 32 Pressure sensor 33 Data transmission unit

[0248] 34 Signal transmission line 35 Finger ring 36 Upper surface side sensor fixing part

[0249] 37 Lower surface side sensor fixing portion 38 Side surface side sensor fixing portion

[0250] 39 Index finger insertion portion 40 Finger insertion portion 41 Load-carrying annular elastic body

[0251] 42 Bag-shaped other finger fixing portion 43 Load-carrying belt-shaped elastic body

[0252] H is the hand of the person doing the inspection. P is the palm of the hand. δ is the average value of the amplitude δ.

Claims

1. A manual muscle strength testing device, characterized in that: The manual muscle strength testing device comprises: Other finger fixing parts can fix the middle finger, ring finger and little finger of the subject; an inertial sensor that can be worn on the tip of the index finger of the subject and can measure the movement of the fingertip and record or transmit the movement measurement data; and The load applying unit applies a load to the fingertip on which the inertial sensor is mounted.

2. The manual muscle strength testing device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The load applying part is any one of the following elastic bodies: An elastic body fixed on the pad side of the fingertip and contracted by a force in the direction in which the fingertip moves toward the pad side; an elastic body fixed on the nail side of the fingertip and stretched by a force in the direction in which the fingertip moves away from the nail side; an elastic body fixed on the thumb side of the fingertip and contracted by a force in the direction in which the fingertip moves toward the thumb side; an elastic body fixed on the other finger fixing part side of the fingertip and stretched by a force in the direction in which the fingertip moves away from the other finger fixing parts; an elastic body fixed on the nail side of the fingertip and contracted by a force in the direction in which the fingertip moves toward the nail side; and an elastic body fixed on the pad side of the fingertip and stretched by a force in the direction in which the fingertip moves away from the pad side.

3. The manual muscle strength testing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The manual muscle strength testing device includes a pressure sensor that can be worn on the fingertip and can measure the magnitude of the load applied to any one of the fingertip side, thumb side, and nail side of the fingertip and record or send the load measurement data. The inertial sensor and the pressure sensor are fixed on a ring that can be worn on the fingertip. The pressure sensor is fixed on the outside of the annular portion of the ring to all or any one of the fingertip side, thumb side and nail side of the fingertip. The load applying unit applies a load to a pressure sensor fixed to one of a fingertip side, a thumb side, and a nail side of the fingertip.

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