Effects of robot-assisted therapy on stroke rehabilitation in upper limbs: Systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature

Abstract

Abstract-We systematically reviewed and analyzed the literature to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that employed robotic devices in upper-limb rehabilitation of people with stroke. Out of 574 studies, 12 matching the selection criteria were found. The Fugl-Meyer, Functional Independence Measure, Motor Power Scale, and Motor Status Scale outcome measures from the selected RCTs were pooled together, and the corresponding effect sizes were estimated. We found that when the duration/intensity of conventional therapy (CT) is matched with that of the robot-assisted therapy (RT), no difference exists between the intensive CT and RT groups in terms of motor recovery, activities of daily living, strength, and motor control. However, depending on the stage of recovery, extra sessions of RT in addition to regular CT are more beneficial than regular CT alone in motor recovery of the hemiparetic shoulder and elbow of patients with stroke; gains are similar to those that have been observed in intensive CT.

Position tracking of a passive rehabilitation robot

“…A robot-assisted therapy has many advantages over hands-on, manual therapy. Robotic systems can monitor movements and measure motor skills and can deliver coherent training during each session [2] [3]. Advances in robotic technology have resulted in the development of several advanced active robotic systems for upper limb post-stroke rehabilitation.…”

A Novel Design and Implementation of a 4-DOF Upper Limb Exoskeleton for Stroke Rehabilitation with Active Assistive Control Strategy

“…Several studies prove that arm therapy has positive effects on the rehabilitation progress of stroke patients [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]. So, the interested in using the robotic device to help rehabilitation therapy is increasing.…”

“…Many studies showed that using robotic devices in rehabilitation process on stroke patients has positive effects [3][4][5][6][7]. However, there are a few types of research and developments about using robot for rehabilitation in Thailand.…”

A Review and Perspective on Maximizing Brain Plasticity: Priming the Nervous System to Learn

“…[35][36][37] In other cases, assistive robotics may prime the neuromusuloskeletal system to move, initiating the potential to recover normal voluntary movements. 38 In summary, the brain is soft wired. Neuroplasticity is a process which can continue across the lifespan when paired with positive life style behaviors, dynamic learning and physical activities.…”