Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To assess whether robot-assisted reach training (RART) with an active assistant protocol can improve upper extremity function and kinematic performance in chronic stroke survivors.
DESIGN:
This study was conducted as a randomized controlled trial.
SETTING:
National rehabilitation center.
PARTICIPANTS:
Chronic stroke survivors (N=38) were randomized into 2 groups: a robot-assisted reach training with assist-as-needed (RT-AAN) group and a robot-assisted reach training with guidance force (RT-G) group.
INTERVENTION:
The RT-AAN group received robot-assisted reach training with an assist-as-needed mode for 40 minutes per day, 3 times per week over a 6-week period, and the RT-G group participated in the RART with a guidance mode for 40 minutes per day, 3 times per week over a 6-week period.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:
Upper extremity functions were measured with Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), and Box and Block Test. In addition, movement velocities were measured as an index for upper extremity kinematic performances in 6 directions.
RESULTS:
Both groups showed significant improvements in FMA, ARAT, and kinematics (movement velocity) in all directions (targets 1-6, P<.05). However, the RT-AAN group showed significantly more improvement than the RT-G group in FMA and ARAT (P<.05).
CONCLUSIONS:
RART with an active assistant protocol showed improvements of upper extremity function and kinematic performance in chronic stroke survivors. In particular, assist-as-needed robot control was effective for upper extremity rehabilitation. Therefore robot-assisted training may be suggested as an effective intervention to improve upper extremity function in chronic stroke survivors.
Copyright © 2018 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
TBI Rehabilitation 