Pilot Testing of Assessment of Capacity for Myoelectric Control (ACMC) in Evaluating Myoelectric Hand Function in Chinese Population

Upper limb amputations cause marked functional disability and lower the individual's self-body image, with severe psychological implications. Many rehabilitation parameters are involved in the successful rehabilitation of upper limb amputations. The aim of this study was to examine the validity and reliability of the Chinese version of Assessment of Capacity for Myoelectric Control (Chinese-ACMC) in upper limb amputated subjects and with a myo-electric-powered prosthetic hand. To validate the Chinese version of Assessment of Capacity for Myoelectric Control (Chinese-ACMC) in upper limb amputee subjects (children and adults) with a myo-electric-powered prosthetic hand. A sample of convenience sampling of 22 subjects (11 males, 11 females) with upper limb amputation and myoelectric prosthetic hands were recorded during a regular clinical visit for ACMC. Each subject was evaluated according to four criteria: (a) Upper Limb Amputation including all levels of amputation; (b) No specific pain type – no matter phantom or pain in the stump; (c) With intact cognitive function; (d) Age ranged from 12 to 40 years. With instruction, occupational therapists and prosthetic-orthotics with at least twenty years' clinical experience of myoelectric prosthesis training would conduct the 30-items Chinese ACMC for each subject. A serial of errand tasks of activities of daily living were designed for evaluation. Individuals' ratings were repeated after 4 weeks. Through test-retest reliability, internal consistency testing, factor analysis, intra and inter factor correlation analysis. A four-factor structure, namely, “Gripping”, “Holding”, “Releasing” and “Coordinating” are identified.