New Robotic Arm Aids Stroke Patients
The journal Stroke includes an article describing a new nonrobotic device called the Sensorimotor Active Rehabilitation Training (SMART) Arm. The device is used to support patients who have had a stroke, resulting in chronic and severe paresis. The researchers note that the tool can aid stroke victims improve activity.
The SMART Arm supports re-learning of reaching tasks, according to a study published by a research team at the University of Queensland in Australia. The team there developed this new device, which entails an inexpensive iteration of weights, a pulley, and linear track with minimal to no friction. The SMART Arm is designed to reduce the difficulty of reaching tasks. This is achieved by decreasing the degrees of freedom and minimizing resistance associated with movement.
The group assessed the efficacy of the device either with or without electromyography-triggered electrical stimulation. Stimulation was included to support elbow extension. A total of 42 patients who had a stroke, all with severe and chronic paresis were recruited into the study. Patients underwent training either with or without stimulation and there was a control group that did not use the arm.
The primary endpoint of the study was upper arm function. Additional outcomes of interest included impairment measures such as reaching force and muscle strength. Researchers also assessed reaching distance. Measurements were completed at study entry, after four weeks of using the device, and two months later.
Both groups of patients who used the SMART Arm demonstrated improvements in all outcomes. The control group experienced no change in those measures. There were no differences in outcomes noted associated with simulation, in addition to use of the SMART Arm.
July 10, 2008 Related topics: New Technology & Innovation, Orthopedic