A technique to train finger coordination and independence after stroke.
OBJECTIVE
Finger coordination and independence are often impaired in stroke survivors, preventing them from performing activities of daily living. We have developed a technique using a robotic interface, the HandCARE, to train these functions.


METHODS
The Hand Cable-Actuated REhabilitation (CARE) system can assist the subject in opening and closing movements of the hand, and can be adapted to accommodate various hand sizes and finger shapes.


RESULTS
Two game-like exercises have been developed, which use a motivating approach to promote recovery of finger coordination and independence. Mathematical measures have been implemented to evaluate these functions. This technique is validated with two post-stroke subjects who practiced for 20 minutes twice a week during eight weeks.


CONCLUSIONS
The results show significant improvements in finger coordination, force modulation as well as finger independence.
Dovat
Ludovic
L
Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore. ludovic.dovat@nus.edu.sg
Lambercy
Olivier
O
Salman
Berna
B
Johnson
Vineet
V
Milner
Theodore
T
Gassert
Roger
R
Burdet
Etienne
E
Leong
Teo C
TC
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000465:Algorithms; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D005385:Fingers; D006801:Humans; D057187:Independent Living; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement; D010291:Paresis / Q000209:etiology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D011597:Psychomotor Performance; D020521:Stroke / Q000150:complications; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation; D016896:Treatment Outcome