Introduction to Hand Function Assessment
This practical guide is designed to assist clinicians in understanding and differentiating the various dimensions of hand function, including impairment, disability, and handicap. It offers a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and methodologies involved in the examination of hand function.
The guide has been extensively revised to incorporate new and updated chapters, ensuring it remains a relevant and essential resource for professionals in the field.
Core Principles and Examination
The book provides a broad overview of the basic principles and examination techniques crucial for assessing hand function. It lays the groundwork for understanding the complexities involved in evaluating the hand's capabilities and limitations.
Key areas covered include foundational concepts necessary for accurate diagnosis and effective intervention strategies.
Evaluation in Specific Patient Populations
A significant portion of this guide is dedicated to detailing how to effectively evaluate hand function across diverse patient populations. Understanding the unique challenges and considerations for each group is paramount for tailored assessment and treatment.
- Rheumatoid Patients: Addressing the specific impacts of rheumatoid conditions on hand function.
- Stroke Patients: Evaluating hand function post-stroke, focusing on neurological impairments.
- Trauma Patients: Assessment following acute or chronic hand injuries.
- Geriatric Patients: Considering age-related changes and conditions affecting hand function in older adults.
- Pediatric Patients: Specialized approaches for assessing hand function in children.
- Diabetes Mellitus Patients: Understanding the implications of diabetes on hand health and function.
- Musicians: Specific assessments for hand function in individuals whose profession heavily relies on fine motor skills and dexterity.
Advanced Topics and Technologies
The second edition introduces updated discussions on contemporary topics and technological advancements relevant to hand function. These include:
- Cerebral Palsy: New insights into assessing hand function in individuals with cerebral palsy.
- Sports Injuries: Comprehensive evaluation of hand injuries sustained during sports activities.
- Robotics: The role and application of robotics in hand rehabilitation and assessment.
- Assistive Technologies: Integration and assessment of various assistive devices to improve hand function.
Assessment Tools and Scales
An essential component of this guide is the inclusion of an appendix dedicated to hand function scales. These scales are critical tools for the objective assessment of disability and progress in patients with impaired hand function.
Clinicians can utilize these standardized scales to quantify functional limitations and track outcomes effectively.
Product Specifications
| Publisher | Springer |
| Publication Date | August 13, 2020 |
| Edition | Second Edition 2019 |
| Language | English |
| Print Length | 372 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 3030170020 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-3030170028 |
| Item Weight | 7.6 ounces |
| Dimensions | 7.01 x 0.79 x 10 inches |
About the Editor
The editor of "Hand Function: A Practical Guide to Assessment" is Mehmet Tuncay Duruöz.
Professor Duruöz is affiliated with the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and serves as the Head of the Rheumatology Division at Marmara University Medical School in Istanbul, Turkey. His expertise is central to the comprehensive nature of this guide.
Support and Further Resources
For any inquiries regarding the content of this publication, or for information on related medical resources, please contact the publisher, Springer. Additional academic and clinical resources may be available through their official channels.
Note: This manual provides informational content for clinical assessment and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.






