Intra-articular kinematics of the upper limb joints: a six degrees of freedom study of coupled motions

In sport, leisure and certain occupational activities, joint lesions of the upper limb are very common. To understand their aetiology in order to prevent and treat these pathologies on a scientific basis, a comprehensive knowledge of the involved stress and kinematics is imperative. For many years intra-articular joint kinematics have been described hypothetically in terms of the convex-concave principle. This principle, however, has not been validated. The in vitro research on the acromioclavicular, glenohumeral and elbow joints was performed using an electromagnetic tracking device (Flock of Birds). By recalculating the positions of the trackers to an embedded coordinate system on the joint surface, the intra-articular joint movements can be analysed. Therefore, the bony configurations and articular surface features were registered with a 3D drawing stylus (Microscribe). Thirteen acromioclavicular joints, six glenohumeral joints and seven elbows were studied. The coupled intra-articular movements were analysed using the Euler angles and finite helical axis approaches. The results of the acromioclavicular joint analysis indicate that during movements in the scapular plane a superior rotation of the clavicle was coupled with an inferior translation and vice versa, whilst during movements in the plane perpendicular to the scapular plane the anterior rotation was coupled with an anterior translation and vice versa. In the glenohumeral joint, the abduction-elevation was coupled with an external rotation. In the humero-ulnar joint, the extension was coupled with an external rotation and varus movement. This intra-articular behaviour was in contradiction to currently accepted convex-concave concepts in arthrokinematics and manual therapy. The results may have major implications for manual therapy and orthopaedic medical practice.