Abstract
Measurement of the muscle tension are normally done with specialized apparatus, a.k.a. myotonometers. These devices need specialized personnel, sophisticated electric drive, feedback control and mostly static construction.
Hence the high purchase and operating costs of these devices. For these reasons, the requirement for our device arose.
The basic requirements are the manual size of the apparatus and the possibility of measuring various muscles all over the body. The apparatus works on the principle of indentor injection into the tissue.
The measured quantity is the resistance that the tissue puts. The maximum indentation depth is adjustable and constant during all partial measurements.
Another use of apparatus is to objectify the Palpation Test. The evaluation of this test is highly subjective and depends on the experience of the implementing specialist.
With help of this apparatus it is possible to visualize result while facilitating the transfer of experience among clinical experts. The apparatus is designed to by attached to the respective muscles and the indentor is manually pushed into the muscle.
A compression spring is used to reverse movement. The threaded rod is used as a beam between the measuring sensor and the handle.
This makes it possible to use nuts as an adjustable depth of indentation. The measuring sensor is one-axis pressure gauge from Kisler.