The Assessment of Upper Limb Functionality in Friedreich Ataxia via Self-Feeding Activity

Abstract

The objective assessment of motor impairment resulting from neurological disorders forms the basis for effective rehabilitation and therapeutic programs. Such assessments conducted through the engagement of suitable daily activities can serve as an effective surrogate measure for the assessment of independent living. This study considers an instrumented spoon in the assessment of upper-limb functionality through the self-feeding activity of a group of individuals clinically diagnosed with the debilitating condition, Friedreich ataxia (FRDA). Thirty-five subjects with FRDA (34 ± 14 years old) and 14 age-matched healthy subjects performed three cycles of self-feeding consisting of grasping, sc..