Christian Schmitz

Dr. Christian Schmitz


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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19 January 2026 in Applied Sciences
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
HAHeithem Ben Abdallah
Heithem Ben Abdallah
JTJanina Tennler
Janina Tennler
CSChristine Seelmann
Christine Seelmann
VHViola Haverkamp
Viola Haverkamp
CSChristian Schmitz
Christian Schmitz
TOTobias Ohmann
Tobias Ohmann
Background: Gamification is a promising approach to support rehabilitation, but implementing new devices after hand surgery (HS) faces challenges, especially in patient motivation and compliance. Technology-based, personalized solutions may encourage patients to perform gamified exercises consistently. This study investigated the impact of a tablet-based gamified hand-mobilization system on functional outcomes after HS compared to standard finger-expander training. Methods: Forty inpatients at BG Klinikum Duisburg were randomly assigned to a gamified or control group. Both groups underwent four weeks of stationary rehabilitation. Outcomes were assessed using the Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire (DASH), SF-36 health-related quality of life, and a visual analog scale (VAS) at pre- (T0) and post-training (T1). Tablet use frequency and duration were recorded. Results: DASH scores improved significantly over time (F(1.55, 58.85) = 16.36, p < 0.001, partial η2 = 0.137) with no Group or Time × Group effects (p > 0.40), exceeding the MCID in both groups. SF-36 MCS, PCS, and VAS pain also improved over time (all p < 0.05) with no between-group differences (p > 0.40). Exercise duration differed (p = 0.007), but training frequency did not. Conclusions: Both gamified and conventional rehabilitation programs led to clinically meaningful improvements in hand function after hand surgery. No significant differences were observed between groups, indicating that the tablet-based system was feasible and well-accepted but not superior to standard training.