Biomechanical assessment and finite element analysis of a simulated axial-loading experiment on a wrist protector model

Objective To evaluate the biomechanical analysis and effect of the wrist protector and provide a theoretical basis for wrist fractures and the optimal design of wrist protectors. Methods 6 cadaveric wrist models were axially loaded 600 N stress, and the stress magnitude and distribution of the experimental group (wearing wrist protectors) and control group were obtained. Furthermore, a three-dimensional finite element analysis was conducted to verify the scientificity and effectiveness of the models. Results The stresses on the radial distal palmar, ulnar distal palmar, radial distal dorsal, ulnar distal dorsal, radial proximal palmar and ulnar proximal palmar units in the experimental group were lower than those in the control group (P < 0.05). However, the stresses on the radial proximal dorsal and ulnar proximal dorsal units were higher than those in the control group (P>0.05). Conclusion The stress on the radioulnar palmar unit was high, while the radioulnar dorsal unit one was relatively low. Within the range of physiological loads, wearing wrist protectors can significantly reduce the stress on the radioulnar distal palmar, radioulnar proximal palmar and radioulnar distal dorsal units.