Accuracy and smoothness of goal-directed reaching movements in upper limb prosthesis users

We compared movement accuracy and smoothness during goal-directed reaching movements in myoelectric prosthesis users and able-bodied controls. We measured movement accuracy as the distance error in matching a virtual target and quantified trajectory smoothness as the spectral arc-length (SPARC). Movements made with prostheses were less smooth and but similar in accuracy to those made with intact limbs. Future work with varying prostheses will allow us to further explore how prosthetic type and training influence reaching movements.