An investigation into an objective measure of muscle quality, function and ability

The assessment of muscular function, quality and ability is of high importance in a diverse range of clinical disciplines from anaesthetics to physiotherapy. This project looks at the range of measurement techniques currently in use and development and considers their effectiveness and objectivity. It then investigates whether an objective measurement technique can be found or developed that can be used both in the clinical environment and the community setting. It will focus on upper limb function and ability; ability is used here instead of strength since ability better describes functions needed for daily living rather than the maximum output a muscle is capable of.