A Measurement Tool to Assess Hand Kinematics and Kinetics in Piano Players

The purpose of this study was to design and develop a measurement tool and protocol to measure hand posture and finger loads during piano playing and to study the relationship between palmar arch and associated forces generated when pressing keys during piano playing. Information gained from developing a system to study these parameters will ultimately provide piano players and instructors with information to enhance playing performance as well as strategies to reduce hand injuries and playing related pain.