Design of an Adjustable Compression Glove for Hand Arthritis

Abstract

Hand osteoarthritis (HOA) is one of the most common forms of arthritis, resulting in pain, aching, stiffness, and inflammation of the joints. One method of alleviating these symptoms is the use of compression gloves, which promote circulation in the hands. However, conventional compression gloves pose several user-based challenges: they are difficult to don/doff; only apply static pressure; and can be uncomfortable, thereby disincentivizing use. Introducing dynamic, shape changing behavior to compression gloves through the use of pneumatics can provide a promising alternative to these limited, conventional forms. Moreover, a pneumatic system allows for high levels of compression that are instantaneous and adjustable. This work explores the design of a pneumatically-actuated adjustable compression glove. The prototype is defined through user needs and is validated through compression testing, successfully and repeatedly producing pressure levels beyond the 3.73 kPa goal defined for HOA in the finger joints.