Ultrasound

Ultrasound gives doctors and therapists the ability to look at tendons and joints and determine their overall health. HERL has developed methods of evaluating ultrasound images taken of the median nerve in the wrist and rotator cuff tendons in the shoulder. Nerves and tendons in these images are tested for markers of carpal tunnel syndrome and rotator cuff pathology, both of which affect a great deal of wheelchair users.  Results from our studies indicate that certain techniques for propulsion and transfers can reduce stress placed on the arms, which can ultimately help to reduce pain and the development of shoulder or wrist injuries.