Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Gazi Mühendislik Bilimleri Dergisi, cilt.11, sa.2, ss.135-145, 2025 (TRDizin)
Upper extremity orthoses are essential for individuals with limited limb function due to musculoskeletal or neurological conditions. Wrist-hand orthoses (WHOs), especially wrist-driven designs, improve hand function using the tenodesis effect, where wrist extension results in passive finger flexion. These orthoses help users with some residual wrist motion to perform gripping tasks and gain independence. However, for those without active wrist movement, additional aids such as elastic bands, shoulder input, or powered mechanisms are needed. Despite their benefits, wrist-driven orthoses (WDOs) often face usability issues, including donning/doffing, poor fit, mechanical limitations, and unattractive designs, all of which can reduce user compliance. Proper fit and precise alignment of the finger mechanism are crucial for comfort and function. This review investigates WHOs incorporating wrist mobility, emphasizing biomechanical principles, design strategies, and additive manufacturing advancements. It highlights current solutions, identifies common limitations, and underscores the need for more user-friendly, reliable, and aesthetically acceptable designs. By summarizing key findings and research gaps, this review offers a foundation for future improvements in orthotic technology aimed at enhancing patient outcomes and device adoption.