Efficacy of Robotic Rehabilitation for Neuro Recovery of the Upper Limb in Subacute Stroke Survivors: An International Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial
IRCCS San Raffaele Roma
Summary
This multicenter international randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluates the effectiveness of the Gloreha Sinfonia® robotic exoskeleton for upper limb rehabilitation in individuals with subacute post-stroke paresis. The study aims to determine whether robotic-assisted therapy improves voluntary motor control and coordination more effectively than conventional rehabilitation, as measured by the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) for the upper limb (motor component). Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: * Experimental Group (EG): Robotic-assisted upper limb rehabilitation combined with conventional therapy. * Control Group (CG): Conventional therapy alone including upper limb rehabilitation. Clinical assessments will be conducted at baseline (T1), post-treatment (T2), and at a 3-month follow-up (T3) using remotely administered scales. Secondary objectives include evaluating improvements in muscle strength, range of motion, eye-hand coordination, manual dexterity, and functional independence. The study will also assess prognostic factors influencing response to robotic therapy, patient satisfaction, and potential adverse events.
Description
Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, with hemiparesis impairing upper limb function in 75% of affected patients. This deficit significantly reduces patients' independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) and limits social participation. Recovery of upper limb motor function is a primary goal in post-stroke rehabilitation. In recent years, robotic devices for hand rehabilitation have been introduced. The Gloreha Sinfonia® (R-Touch Pro, BTL Robotics) is a robotic exoskeleton that enables repetitive, intensive movements in passive, assisted, and active modes. Despite growing evi…