DETERMINATION OF INTERNAL FORCES IN HUMAN HAND

Three-dimensional force analysis of finger tendons and joints in isometric hand functions was formulated as a statically indeterminate problem. This problem was solved adjunctly by the permutation-combination technique and the method of linear programming. Optimal solutions were compared with those produced by the permutation-combination technique and justified based on clinical and physiologic assessments. The results obtained are within the expected range and the muscle force distribution coincides with the data established in previous EMG studies and muscle volume analyses. The validity of the technique used and its potential applications to force analysis of the entire human hand in various functional configurations were considered.