Effects of robot-assisted training on upper limb functional recovery during the rehabilitation of poststroke patients

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The study aims to determine the effectiveness of robot-assisted training in the recovery of stroke-affected arms using an exoskeleton robot Armeo Spring.

OBJECTIVE:

To identify the effect of robot training on functional recovery of the arm.

METHODS:

A total of 34 stroke patients were divided into either an experimental group (EG; $n=$ 17) or a control group ( $n=$ 17). EG was also trained to use the Armeo Spring during occupational therapy. Both groups were clinically assessed before and after treatment. Statistical comparison methods (i.e. one-tailed t-tests for differences between two independent means and the simplest test) were conducted to compare motor recovery using robot-assisted training or conventional therapy.

RESULTS:

Patients assigned to the EG showed a statistically significant improvement in upper extremity motor function when compared to the CG by FIM ( $P<$ 0.05) and ACER ( $P<$ 0.05). The calculated treatment effect in the EG and CG was meaningful for shoulder and elbow kinematic parameters.

CONCLUSIONS:

The findings show the benefits of robot therapy in two areas of functional recovery. Task-oriented robotic training in rehabilitation setting facilitates recovery not only of the motor function of the paretic arm but also of the cognitive abilities in stroke patients.