Hand and wrist biomechanics international - an introduction

The hand and wrist represent one of the most challenging structures in the study of biomechanics, as well as in the evaluation of many biomechanical principles. Hand and wrist biomechanics has been somewhat underdeveloped in comparison to mainstream biomechanics research over the past century. While surgeons and engineers have initiated numerous biomechanical studies, collaborative efforts among scientists and clinicians are required in order for continuing progression in research and further improvement of treatment modalities and outcomes. Therefore, HWBI encompasses a broad spectrum of research including, among others, orthopedic / neurological disorders, ergonomic applications, performance enhancement (e.g. sports), rehabilitation, and motor control. This HWBI symposium will present the most recent research in hand and wrist Biomechanics related to clinical problems in order to highlight the fundamental role of biomechanics research for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with hand and wrist pathologies.