A computerized kinematic diagnostic system.

This paper describes the instrumentation developed for a clinical system that measures upper extremity kinematics in normal and cerebral palsied children. The ability to diagnose cerebral palsy during early and midinfancy is influenced by the fact that movement and postural abnormalities become apparent only over time, and are not readily detectable until there is sufficient abnormality so that it can be viewed by gross inspection during clinical examination. The methodology presented here serves to discriminate normal from deviant movement at an earlier age than what is presently possible, and may also result in alternative therapeutic intervention.