Functionally-Based Rehabilitation Robotics - A Next Step?

Functionally-Based Rehabilitation Robotics

  A desired outcome of many stroke survivors is reduced impairment in motor functions of the paretic arm, such as strength and coordination, as well as improved functional use of that limb during daily life activities. Previous studies with MIT-MANUS emphasized reductions in motor impairment after stroke, with no specific attempts to help the person link the motor actions practiced during robotic therapy to real-life movement tasks. Herein, we present our first attempt to blend components of robot-assisted movement therapy with task-oriented training during functionally-based reaching and grasping tasks. The integration of robotic technology with more conventional task-oriented therapy is challenging. We predict that continued work in this area will lead to more effective, functionally-based interventions for stroke survivors that are widely accepted by the rehabilitation community.