Can 3D-Engineered Gloves Prevent Hand Injury in Hurling? Design, Biomechanical Testing, and Player Feedback

Objective: Engagement in sport promotes health and well-being but also carries the risk of injury, with hand fractures reported as the most common anatomical area. Hurling has been coined as the fastest field sport in the world and its players commonly sustain hand injuries. Average ball speed has been measured to be 123.6 km/h. In order to devise a glove that offers comfort, support, and freedom of movement, the bespoke capabilities of 3-dimensional (3D) printing will be explored in this study. Materials and Methods: An academic from the area of industrial design and an experienced hand therapist will design a glove for use in hurling. Reference to anatomy, common hurling injuries reported in the literature and the capabilities of 3D printing will assist in the glove design. Laboratory studies will also be completed to ascertain the tensile strength of the material and its ability to offer protection from the impact of hurling sticks and balls. Approximately 12 players will have their “catching” hand imaged using a 3D scanner. These data will produce a 3D printed bespoke glove for each player. The gloves will be trialed during the course of a match and players will complete questionnaires exploring the themes of comfort, support, protection and dexterity. Results: Ethical approval has been received from the Healthcare Trust involved in this study. Laboratory studies and glove prototypes are currently in operation. Testing of the glove and questionnaires from players will be completed in April 2016. Conclusion: The prevention of hand injuries sustained in sports participation is a key area to help avoid presentation at emergency departments, follow-up therapy, time off from work, and, in some cases, surgery. This feasibility study explores the versatility of 3D printing as a potential avenue to improve player compliance in wearing protective sportswear and injury prevention. This is the first step in development of a glove through testing prototypes in a controlled environment. Initially hurling is the primary focus in this study, but knowledge gains should be transferable to other sports that have a high incidence of hand injury.