Robotics in neuro-rehabilitation.

Full Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to review robot-assisted motor and functional rehabilitation of the upper limb in patients with stroke and to outline possible clinical applications of robotics in neuro-rehabilitation. METHODS: Available active systems, with actuators driving the paretic arm, were sub-classified by scientific rationale and mechatronic structure as exoskeletons or operational-type machines (manipulators). Applicative studies were compared for indication of efficacy. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Clinical and biomechanical evidence available to date suggests substantial efficacy of robot--assisted neuro-rehabilitation in the recovery of the paretic arm after stroke, enabling longer dedicated training sessions with no additional work for the therapist. Further investigation of large samples of patients is required to define the relationship between disability and residual function, to provide shared criteria of evaluation of disability/outcome and protocols of rehabilitation, and to identify the expected future role and application of robotics in neuro-rehabilitation.

Author information

Author/s: Pignolo, Loris (L);

Affiliation: RAN - Research on Advanced, Neuro-rehabilitation, S. Anna Institute, Via Siris, IT-88900 Crotone, Italy. l.pignolo(-atsign-)istitutosantanna.it

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article

Journal: Journal of rehabilitation medicine : official journal of the UEMS European Board of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (J Rehabil Med), published in Sweden. (Language: eng)

Reference: 2009-Nov; vol 41 (issue 12) : pp 955-60

Dates: Created 2009/10/20; Completed 2009/10/27;

PMID: 19841823, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 10/27/2009, IMS Date: )

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