Robot-Aided Diagnosis, Passive-Active Arm Motor and Sensory Rehabilitation Post Stroke: Aims 2&3
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Summary
Sensorimotor impairments following stroke often involve complex pathological changes across multiple joints and multiple degrees of freedom of the arm and hand, thereby rendering them difficult to diagnose and treat. The objective of this study is to evaluate multi-joint neuromechanical impairments in the arm and hand, then conduct impairment-specific treatment, and determine the effects of arm versus hand training and the effects of passive stretching before active movement training.
Description
Sensorimotor impairments following stroke can lead to substantial disability involving the upper extremity. These impairments often involve complex pathological changes across multiple joints and multiple degrees-of-freedom of the arm and hand, thereby rendering them difficult to diagnose and treat. Many potential mechanisms, such as weakness, motoneuronal hyperexcitability, and elevated passive impedance, can contribute and it is currently unclear where to focus treatment. The objectives of this study are to address allocation of therapy resources between the arm and hand and to examine the b…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–85 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * First focal unilateral lesion, ischemic or hemorrhagic * Had a stroke 1-12 months prior to enrollment * Rated between stages 2-4 on the Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment Impairment Inventory: Stage of Recovery of the Arm and Hand Exclusion Criteria: * Apraxia * Score of less than 22 on the Mini Mental Status Exam * Severe pain in the shoulder by a self-rating of 7 out of 10 or greater * Severe contracture in the upper extremity * Unable to sit in a chair for 3 consecutive hours * Unrelated musculoskeletal injuries * Poor fit into equipment used in study * Botox inject…
Interventions
- OtherPassive stretching
Prior to active training, subjects will be passively move their arm or hand by IntelliArm or the hand robot within preset ranges of motion.
- OtherPassive movement
Prior to active training, subjects will be passively move their arm or hand by IntelliArm or the hand robot only within ranges that produce no to very minimal forces.
- OtherIntelliArm
During the active training, subjects will be asked to actively move their arm while supported with IntelliArm robot to interact with virtual targets and objects. The IntelliArm may provide resistance or assistance.
- OtherHand robot
During the active training, subjects will be asked to actively open and close their hand with the hand robot on while participating in task oriented occupational therapy focused on grasp and release tasks. The hand robot may provide resistance or assistance.
Location
- University of Maryland, BaltimoreBaltimore, Maryland