A laser dot tracking method for the assessment of sensorimotor function of the hand

Assessment of sensorimotor function is crucial during the rehabilitation process of various physical disorders, including impairments of the hand. While moment performance can be accurately assessed in movement science laboratories involving highly specialized personnel and facilities there is a lack of feasible objective methods for the general clinic. This paper describes a novel approach to sensorimotor assessment using an intuitive test and a specifically tailored image processing pipeline for the quantification of the test. More specifically the test relies on the patient being instructed on following a zig-zag pattern using a handled laser pointer. The movement of the pointer is tracked using image processing algorithm capable of automating the whole procedure. The method has potential for feasible objective clinical assessment of the hand and other body parts.