Capturing three-dimensional clavicle kinematics: a validation of surface sensor measurements

Abstract

Despite conclusions from previous research that clavicle rotation is necessary for normal shoulder motion, dynamic clavicle rotations are rarely included in shoulder studies. This is likely due to the difficult nature in capturing clavicle motion. The purpose of this study was to determine the validity of non-invasive electromagnetic measures of dynamic clavicle motion against bone pin measurements. 3D rotations of the clavicle were collected simultaneously from a surface sensor and bone pin mounted sensor from six cadaveric shoulders. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to determine the validity of the surface sensor measurements compared to the bone pin measurements. It was determined that the electromagnetic surface sensor accurately tracks retraction and elevation, but underestimates axial rotation. A mathematical equation was developed to improve the fit of surface sensor values for axial rotation. The strong ICC values for each clavicle rotation suggest that the surface sensor...