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Li Y, Lian Y, Chen X, Zhang H, Xu G, Duan H, Xie X, Li Z. Effect of task-oriented training assisted by force feedback hand rehabilitation robot on finger grasping function in stroke patients with hemiplegia: a randomised controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2024; 21:77. [PMID: 38745227 PMCID: PMC11092254 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-024-01372-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over 80% of patients with stroke experience finger grasping dysfunction, affecting independence in activities of daily living and quality of life. In routine training, task-oriented training is usually used for functional hand training, which may improve finger grasping performance after stroke, while augmented therapy may lead to a better treatment outcome. As a new technology-supported training, the hand rehabilitation robot provides opportunities to improve the therapeutic effect by increasing the training intensity. However, most hand rehabilitation robots commonly applied in clinics are based on a passive training mode and lack the sensory feedback function of fingers, which is not conducive to patients completing more accurate grasping movements. A force feedback hand rehabilitation robot can compensate for these defects. However, its clinical efficacy in patients with stroke remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness and added value of a force feedback hand rehabilitation robot combined with task-oriented training in stroke patients with hemiplegia. METHODS In this single-blinded randomised controlled trial, 44 stroke patients with hemiplegia were randomly divided into experimental (n = 22) and control (n = 22) groups. Both groups received 40 min/day of conventional upper limb rehabilitation training. The experimental group received 20 min/day of task-oriented training assisted by a force feedback rehabilitation robot, and the control group received 20 min/day of task-oriented training assisted by therapists. Training was provided for 4 weeks, 5 times/week. The Fugl-Meyer motor function assessment of the hand part (FMA-Hand), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), grip strength, Modified Ashworth scale (MAS), range of motion (ROM), Brunnstrom recovery stages of the hand (BRS-H), and Barthel index (BI) were used to evaluate the effect of two groups before and after treatment. RESULTS Intra-group comparison: In both groups, the FMA-Hand, ARAT, grip strength, AROM, BRS-H, and BI scores after 4 weeks of treatment were significantly higher than those before treatment (p < 0.05), whereas there was no significant difference in finger flexor MAS scores before and after treatment (p > 0.05). Inter-group comparison: After 4 weeks of treatment, the experimental group's FMA-Hand total score, ARAT, grip strength, and AROM were significantly better than those of the control group (p < 0.05). However, there were no statistically significant differences in the scores of each sub-item of the FMA-Hand after Bonferroni correction (p > 0.007). In addition, there were no statistically significant differences in MAS, BRS-H, and BI scores (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION Hand performance improved in patients with stroke after 4 weeks of task-oriented training. The use of a force feedback hand rehabilitation robot to support task-oriented training showed additional value over conventional task-oriented training in stroke patients with hand dysfunction. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION NCT05841108.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinghua Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yawen Lian
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaowei Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guoxing Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Haoyang Duan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xixi Xie
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhenlan Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Huang Y, Yang B, Wong TWL, Ng SSM, Hu X. Personalized robots for long-term telerehabilitation after stroke: a perspective on technological readiness and clinical translation. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2024; 4:1329927. [PMID: 38259875 PMCID: PMC10800453 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1329927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Stroke rehabilitation, which demands consistent, intensive, and adaptable intervention in the long term, faced significant challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, telerehabilitation emerged as a noteworthy complement to traditional rehabilitation services, offering the convenience of at-home care delivery and overcoming geographical and resource limitations. Self-help rehabilitation robots deliver repetitive and intensive physical assistance, thereby alleviating the labor burden. However, robots have rarely demonstrated long-term readiness for poststroke telerehabilitation services. The transition from research trials to general clinical services presents several challenges that may undermine the rehabilitative gains observed in these studies. This perspective discusses the technological readiness of personal use robots in the context of telerehabilitation and identifies the potential challenges for their clinical translation. The goal is to leverage technology to seamlessly integrate it into standard clinical workflows, ultimately enhancing the outcomes of stroke rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhuan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Bibo Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Thomson Wai-Lung Wong
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shamay S. M. Ng
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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3
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Khan MA, Fares H, Ghayvat H, Brunner IC, Puthusserypady S, Razavi B, Lansberg M, Poon A, Meador KJ. A systematic review on functional electrical stimulation based rehabilitation systems for upper limb post-stroke recovery. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1272992. [PMID: 38145118 PMCID: PMC10739305 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1272992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Stroke is one of the most common neurological conditions that often leads to upper limb motor impairments, significantly affecting individuals' quality of life. Rehabilitation strategies are crucial in facilitating post-stroke recovery and improving functional independence. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) systems have emerged as promising upper limb rehabilitation tools, offering innovative neuromuscular reeducation approaches. Objective The main objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive systematic review of the start-of-the-art functional electrical stimulation (FES) systems for upper limb neurorehabilitation in post-stroke therapy. More specifically, this paper aims to review different types of FES systems, their feasibility testing, or randomized control trials (RCT) studies. Methods The FES systems classification is based on the involvement of patient feedback within the FES control, which mainly includes "Open-Loop FES Systems" (manually controlled) and "Closed-Loop FES Systems" (brain-computer interface-BCI and electromyography-EMG controlled). Thus, valuable insights are presented into the technological advantages and effectiveness of Manual FES, EEG-FES, and EMG-FES systems. Results and discussion The review analyzed 25 studies and found that the use of FES-based rehabilitation systems resulted in favorable outcomes for the stroke recovery of upper limb functional movements, as measured by the FMA (Fugl-Meyer Assessment) (Manually controlled FES: mean difference = 5.6, 95% CI (3.77, 7.5), P < 0.001; BCI-controlled FES: mean difference = 5.37, 95% CI (4.2, 6.6), P < 0.001; EMG-controlled FES: mean difference = 14.14, 95% CI (11.72, 16.6), P < 0.001) and ARAT (Action Research Arm Test) (EMG-controlled FES: mean difference = 11.9, 95% CI (8.8, 14.9), P < 0.001) scores. Furthermore, the shortcomings, clinical considerations, comparison to non-FES systems, design improvements, and possible future implications are also discussed for improving stroke rehabilitation systems and advancing post-stroke recovery. Thus, summarizing the existing literature, this review paper can help researchers identify areas for further investigation. This can lead to formulating research questions and developing new studies aimed at improving FES systems and their outcomes in upper limb rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ahmed Khan
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
- Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Hoda Fares
- Department of Electrical, Electronic, Telecommunication Engineering and Naval Architecture (DITEN), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Hemant Ghayvat
- Department of Computer Science, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Sweden
| | | | | | - Babak Razavi
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Maarten Lansberg
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Ada Poon
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
| | - Kimford Jay Meador
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, United States
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Bin L, Wang X, Jiatong H, Donghua F, Qiang W, Yingchao S, Yiming M, Yong M. The effect of robot-assisted gait training for patients with spinal cord injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1252651. [PMID: 37680972 PMCID: PMC10482434 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1252651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background With the aging of the global population, Spinal injuries are often prone to occur and affect human health. The development of technology has put robots on the stage to assist in the treatment of spinal injuries. Methods A comprehensive literature search were carried out in multiple databases, including PubMed, Medline (Ovid), Web of Science, Cochrane, Embase, Scopus, CKNI, Wang fang, VIP database, Sino Med, Clinical Trails until 20th, June, 2023 to collect effect of robot-assisted gait training for patients with spinal cord injury patients. Primary outcome includes any changes of gait distance and gait speed. Secondary outcomes include any changes in functions (Such as TUG, Leg strength, 10 MWT) and any advent events. Data were extracted from two independent individuals and Cochrane Risk of Bias tool version 2.0 was assessed for the included studies. Systematic review and meta-analysis were performed by RevMan 5.3 software. Results 11 studies were included in meta-analysis. The result showed that gait distance [WMD = 16.05, 95% CI (-15.73, 47.83), I2 = 69%], gait speed (RAGT vs. regular treatment) [WMD = 0.01, 95% CI (-0.04, 0.05), I2 = 43%], gait speed (RAGT vs. no intervention) [WMD = 0.07, 95% CI (0.01, 0.12), I2 = 0%], leg strength [WMD = 0.59, 95% CI (-1.22, 2.40), I2 = 29%], TUG [WMD = 9.25, 95% CI (2.76, 15.73), I2 = 74%], 10 MWT [WMD = 0.01, 95% CI (-0.15, 0.16), I2 = 0%], and 6 MWT [WMD = 1.79, 95% CI (-21.32, 24.90), I2 = 0%]. Conclusion Robot-assisted gait training seems to be helpful for patients with spinal cord to improve TUG. It may not affect gait distance, gait speed, leg strength, 10 MWT, and 6 MWT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luo Bin
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Xiaoping Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, PLA Strategic Support Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Hu Jiatong
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Guang'an Men Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fan Donghua
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Wang Qiang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Shen Yingchao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Miao Yiming
- Department of Orthopaedics, Changshu Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Changshu, China
| | - Ma Yong
- Institute of Traumatology & Orthopedics and Laboratory of New Techniques of Restoration & Reconstruction of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
- Department of Traumatology & Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Qing W, Nam CY, Shum HMH, Chan MKL, Yu KP, Ng SSW, Yang B, Hu X. The Translation of Mobile-Exoneuromusculoskeleton-Assisted Wrist-Hand Poststroke Telerehabilitation from Laboratory to Clinical Service. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:976. [PMID: 37627861 PMCID: PMC10451942 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10080976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Rehabilitation robots are helpful in poststroke telerehabilitation; however, their feasibility and rehabilitation effectiveness in clinical settings have not been sufficiently investigated. A non-randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the feasibility of translating a telerehabilitation program assisted by a mobile wrist/hand exoneuromusculoskeleton (WH-ENMS) into routine clinical services and to compare the rehabilitative effects achieved in the hospital-service-based group (n = 12, clinic group) with the laboratory-research-based group (n = 12, lab group). Both groups showed significant improvements (p ≤ 0.05) in clinical assessments of behavioral motor functions and in muscular coordination and kinematic evaluations after the training and at the 3-month follow-up, with the lab group demonstrating better motor gains than the clinic group (p ≤ 0.05). The results indicated that the WH-ENMS-assisted tele-program was feasible and effective for upper limb rehabilitation when integrated into routine practice, and the quality of patient-operator interactions physically and remotely affected the rehabilitative outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyi Qing
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Ching-Yi Nam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Harvey Man-Hok Shum
- Community Rehabilitation Service Support Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Marko Ka-Leung Chan
- Community Rehabilitation Service Support Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - King-Pong Yu
- Community Rehabilitation Service Support Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Serena Sin-Wah Ng
- Community Rehabilitation Service Support Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Bibo Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Fareh R, Elsabe A, Baziyad M, Kawser T, Brahmi B, Rahman MH. Will Your Next Therapist Be a Robot?-A Review of the Advancements in Robotic Upper Extremity Rehabilitation. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:5054. [PMID: 37299781 PMCID: PMC10255591 DOI: 10.3390/s23115054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Several recent studies have indicated that upper extremity injuries are classified as a top common workplace injury. Therefore, upper extremity rehabilitation has become a leading research area in the last few decades. However, this high number of upper extremity injuries is viewed as a challenging problem due to the insufficient number of physiotherapists. With the recent advancements in technology, robots have been widely involved in upper extremity rehabilitation exercises. Although robotic technology and its involvement in the rehabilitation field are rapidly evolving, the literature lacks a recent review that addresses the updates in the robotic upper extremity rehabilitation field. Thus, this paper presents a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art robotic upper extremity rehabilitation solutions, with a detailed classification of various rehabilitative robots. The paper also reports some experimental robotic trials and their outcomes in clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raouf Fareh
- Department of Electrical Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ammar Elsabe
- Department of Computer Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Baziyad
- Research Institute of Sciences and Engineering (RISE), University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tunajjina Kawser
- Anatomy Department, Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Medical College, Gazipur 1700, Bangladesh
| | - Brahim Brahmi
- Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Ahuntsic, Montreal, QC H2M 1Y8, Canada
| | - Mohammad H. Rahman
- Mechanical Engineering, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 53212, USA
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7
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Huo Y, Wang X, Zhao W, Hu H, Li L. Effects of EMG-based robot for upper extremity rehabilitation on post-stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1172958. [PMID: 37256069 PMCID: PMC10226272 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1172958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: A growing body of research shows the promise and efficacy of EMG-based robot interventions in improving the motor function in stroke survivors. However, it is still controversial whether the effect of EMG-based robot is more effective than conventional therapies. This study focused on the effects of EMG-based robot on upper limb motor control, spasticity and activity limitation in stroke survivors compared with conventional rehabilitation techniques. Methods: We searched electronic databases for relevant randomized controlled trials. Outcomes included Fugl-Meyer assessment scale (FMA), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and activity level. Result: Thirteen studies with 330 subjects were included. The results showed that the outcomes post intervention was significantly improved in the EMG-based robot group. Results from subgroup analyses further revealed that the efficacy of the treatment was better in patients in the subacute stage, those who received a total treatment time of less than 1000 min, and those who received EMG-based robotic therapy combined with electrical stimulation (ES). Conclusion: The effect of EMG-based robot is superior to conventional therapies in terms of improving upper extremity motor control, spasticity and activity limitation. Further research should explore optimal parameters of EMG-based robot therapy and its long-term effects on upper limb function in post-stroke patients. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/; Identifier: 387070.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunxia Huo
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
- Research & Development Institute of Northwestern Polytechnical University in Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaohan Wang
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
- Research & Development Institute of Northwestern Polytechnical University in Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Weihua Zhao
- Northwestern Polytechnical University Hospital, Xi’an, China
| | - Huijing Hu
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Le Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an, China
- Research & Development Institute of Northwestern Polytechnical University in Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
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Sheng W, Li S, Zhao J, Wang Y, Luo Z, Lo WLA, Ding M, Wang C, Li L. Upper Limbs Muscle Co-contraction Changes Correlated With the Impairment of the Corticospinal Tract in Stroke Survivors: Preliminary Evidence From Electromyography and Motor-Evoked Potential. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:886909. [PMID: 35720692 PMCID: PMC9198335 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.886909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Increased muscle co-contraction of the agonist and antagonist muscles during voluntary movement is commonly observed in the upper limbs of stroke survivors. Much remain to be understood about the underlying mechanism. The aim of the study is to investigate the correlation between increased muscle co-contraction and the function of the corticospinal tract (CST). Methods Nine stroke survivors and nine age-matched healthy individuals were recruited. All the participants were instructed to perform isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and horizontal task which consist of sponge grasp, horizontal transportation, and sponge release. We recorded electromyography (EMG) activities from four muscle groups during the MVC test and horizontal task in the upper limbs of stroke survivors. The muscle groups consist of extensor digitorum (ED), flexor digitorum (FD), triceps brachii (TRI), and biceps brachii (BIC). The root mean square (RMS) of EMG was applied to assess the muscle activation during horizontal task. We adopted a co-contraction index (CI) to evaluate the degree of muscle co-contraction. CST function was evaluated by the motor-evoked potential (MEP) parameters, including resting motor threshold, amplitude, latency, and central motor conduction time. We employed correlation analysis to probe the association between CI and MEP parameters. Results The RMS, CI, and MEP parameters on the affected side showed significant difference compared with the unaffected side of stroke survivors and the healthy group. The result of correlation analysis showed that CI was significantly correlated with MEP parameters in stroke survivors. Conclusion There existed increased muscle co-contraction and impairment in CST functionality on the affected side of stroke survivors. The increased muscle co-contraction was correlated with the impairment of the CST. Intervention that could improve the excitability of the CST may contribute to the recovery of muscle discoordination in the upper limbs of stroke survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfei Sheng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shijue Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiangli Zhao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yujia Wang
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Zichong Luo
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Wai Leung Ambrose Lo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Minghui Ding
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chuhuai Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Le Li
- Institute of Medical Research, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi'an, China
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Niu CM, Chou CH, Bao Y, Wang T, Gu L, Zhang X, Cui L, Xuan Z, Zhuang C, Li S, Chen Z, Lan N, Xie Q. A Pilot Study of Synergy-Based FES for Upper-Extremity Poststroke Rehabilitation. Neurosci Lett 2022; 780:136621. [PMID: 35395324 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2022.136621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A previous study indicated that synergy-based functional electrical stimulation (FES) may improve instantaneous upper-limb motor performance for stroke survivors. However, it remains unclear whether the improvements will sustain over time to achieve functional gains associated with a task-oriented training (TOT). This pilot study was designed to investigate whether there is any promising sign of functional benefits. A TOT protocol with repeated forward and lateral reaching movements assisted by synergy-based FES was conducted in 16 patients (9 FES, 7 Sham) with post-stroke hemiparesis. FES stimuli were applied to 7 upper-extremity muscles of elbow and shoulder during patient movements. Envelopes of stimuli were individualized by re-composing the muscle synergies extracted from a healthy subject. After a five-day training for one hour each day, synergy-based FES induced higher increases in Fugl-Meyer scores (6.67±5.20) than did the Sham (2.00±2.38, p<0.05). Peak velocity of forward reaching movements increased with a slope 73% steeper in FES group than Sham. In lateral reaching movements, the change in synergy similarity correlated with the change in elbow flexion for the FES group, but not the Sham group. Our results indicate that synergy-based FES therapy induced clinically traceable signs of improvements in poststroke motor performance. The muscle activation in patients also showed promising sign of alteration by FES. Results suggest that a larger scale clinical trial of synergy-based FES may be feasible towards an individualized therapeutic regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanxin M Niu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China; Laboratory of Neurorehabilitation Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chih-Hong Chou
- Laboratory of Neurorehabilitation Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Bao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tong Wang
- Laboratory of Neurorehabilitation Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Gu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lijun Cui
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Xuan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cheng Zhuang
- Laboratory of Neurorehabilitation Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Si Li
- Laboratory of Neurorehabilitation Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhi Chen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Lan
- Laboratory of Neurorehabilitation Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Ruijin Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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10
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Guo Z, Zhou S, Ji K, Zhuang Y, Song J, Nam C, Hu X, Zheng Y. Corticomuscular integrated representation of voluntary motor effort in robotic control for wrist-hand rehabilitation after stroke. J Neural Eng 2022; 19. [PMID: 35193124 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac5757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The central-to-peripheral voluntary motor effort (VME) in physical practice of the paretic limb is a dominant force for driving functional neuroplasticity on motor restoration post-stroke. However, current rehabilitation robots isolated the central and peripheral involvements in the control design, resulting in limited rehabilitation effectiveness. The purpose of this study was to design a corticomuscular coherence (CMC) and electromyography (EMG)-driven (CMC-EMG-driven) system with central-and-peripheral integrated representation of VME for wrist-hand rehabilitation after stroke. APPROACH The CMC-EMG-driven control was developed in a neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)-robot system, i.e., CMC-EMG-driven NMES-robot system, to instruct and assist the wrist-hand extension and flexion in persons after stroke. A pilot single-group trial of 20 training sessions was conducted with the developed system to assess the feasibility for wrist-hand practice on the chronic strokes (n=16). The rehabilitation effectiveness was evaluated through clinical assessments, CMC, and EMG activation levels. MAIN RESULTS The trigger success rate and laterality index (LI) of CMC were significantly increased in wrist-hand extension across training sessions (p<0.05). After the training, significant improvements in the target wrist-hand joints and suppressed compensation from the proximal shoulder-elbow joints were observed through the clinical scores and EMG activation levels (p<0.05). The central-to-peripheral VME distribution across upper extremity (UE) muscles was also significantly improved, as revealed by the CMC values (p<0.05). SIGNIFICANCE Precise wrist-hand rehabilitation was achieved by the developed system, presenting suppressed cortical and muscular compensation from the contralesional hemisphere and the proximal UE, and improved distribution of the central-and-peripheral VME on UE muscles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Guo
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Rm S107a, Dept. of BME, PolyU, Hung H, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Kowloon, Nil, HONG KONG
| | - Sa Zhou
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Rm S107a, Dept. of BME, PolyU, Hung H, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Kowloon, HONG KONG
| | - Kailai Ji
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Dept. of BME, PolyU, Hung H, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Kowloon, Hong Kong, HONG KONG
| | - Yongqi Zhuang
- Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, BME PolyU, Kowloon, HONG KONG
| | - Jie Song
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Rm S107a, Dept. of BME, PolyU, Hung H, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Kowloon, Nil, HONG KONG
| | - Chingyi Nam
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Rm S107a, Dept. of BME, PolyU, Hung H, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Kowloon, Nil, HONG KONG
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Rm ST420, Dept. of BME, PolyU, Hung H, Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Kowloon, HONG KONG
| | - Yongping Zheng
- Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, BME PolyU, Hong Kong, Nil, CHINA
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11
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Singh N, Saini M, Kumar N, Srivastava MVP, Mehndiratta A. Evidence of neuroplasticity with robotic hand exoskeleton for post-stroke rehabilitation: a randomized controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2021; 18:76. [PMID: 33957937 PMCID: PMC8101163 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-021-00867-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A novel electromechanical robotic-exoskeleton was designed in-house for the rehabilitation of wrist joint and Metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint. Objective The objective was to compare the rehabilitation effectiveness (clinical-scales and neurophysiological-measures) of robotic-therapy training sessions with dose-matched conventional therapy in patients with stroke. Methods A pilot prospective parallel randomized controlled study at clinical settings was designed for patients with stroke within 2 years of chronicity. Patients were randomly assigned to receive an intervention of 20 sessions of 45 min each, five days a week for four weeks, in Robotic-therapy Group (RG) (n = 12) and conventional upper-limb rehabilitation in Control-Group (CG) (n = 11). We intended to evaluate the effects of a novel exoskeleton based therapy on the functional rehabilitation outcomes of upper-limb and cortical-excitability in patients with stroke as compared to the conventional-rehabilitation. Clinical-scales– Modified Ashworth Scale, Active Range of Motion, Barthel-Index, Brunnstrom-stage and Fugl-Meyer (FM) scale and neurophysiological measures of cortical-excitability (using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) –Motor Evoked Potential and Resting Motor threshold, were acquired pre- and post-therapy. Results No side effects were noticed in any of the patients. Both RG and CG showed significant (p < 0.05) improvement in all clinical motor-outcomes except Modified Ashworth Scale in CG. RG showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher improvement over CG in Modified Ashworth Scale, Active Range of Motion and Fugl-Meyer scale and FM Wrist-/Hand component. An increase in cortical-excitability in ipsilesional-hemisphere was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05) in RG over CG, as indexed by a decrease in Resting Motor Threshold and increase in the amplitude of Motor Evoked Potential. No significant changes were shown by the contralesional-hemisphere. Interhemispheric RMT-asymmetry evidenced significant (p < 0.05) changes in RG over CG indicating increased cortical-excitability in ipsilesional-hemisphere along with interhemispheric changes. Conclusion Robotic-exoskeleton training showed improvement in motor outcomes and cortical-excitability in patients with stroke. Neurophysiological changes in RG could most likely be a consequence of plastic reorganization and use-dependent plasticity. Trial registry number: ISRCTN95291802 Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12984-021-00867-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Singh
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), New Delhi, India
| | - Megha Saini
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), New Delhi, India
| | - Nand Kumar
- Department of Psychiatry, All Indian Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - M V Padma Srivastava
- Department of Neurology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India
| | - Amit Mehndiratta
- Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), New Delhi, India. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, India.
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12
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Khalid S, Alnajjar F, Gochoo M, Renawi A, Shimoda S. Robotic assistive and rehabilitation devices leading to motor recovery in upper limb: a systematic review. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2021:1-15. [PMID: 33861684 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2021.1906960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Stroke, spinal cord injury and other neuromuscular disorders lead to impairments in the human body. Upper limb impairments, especially hand impairments affect activities of daily living (ADL) and reduce the quality of life. The purpose of this review is to compare and evaluate the available robotic rehabilitation and assistive devices that can lead to motor recovery or maintain the current motor functional level. METHODS A systematic review was conducted of the literature published in the years from 2016-2021, to focus on the most recent rehabilitation and assistive devices available in the market or research environments. RESULTS A total of 230 studies published between 2016 and 2021 were identified from various databases. 107 were excluded with various reasons. Twenty-eight studies were taken into detailed review, to determine the efficacy of robotic devices in improving upper limb impairments or maintaining the current level from getting worse. CONCLUSION It was concluded that with a good strategy and treatment plan; appropriate and regular use of these robotic rehabilitation and assistive devices do lead to improvements in current conditions of most of the subjects and prolonged use may lead to motor recovery.Implications for RehabilitationStroke, accidents, spinal cord injuries and other neuromuscular disorders lead to impairments. Upper limb impairments have a tremendous adverse affect on ADL and reduces quality of life drastically.Advancement in technology has led to the designing of many robotic assistive and rehabilitation devices to assist in motor recovery or aid in ADL.This review analyses different available devices for rehabilitation and assistance and points out that use of these devices in time does help in motor recovery. Most of the studies reviewed showed improvements for the user.Future devices should be more portable and easier to use from home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumayya Khalid
- College of Information Technology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fady Alnajjar
- College of Information Technology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.,Intelligent Behavior Control Unit, CBS-TOYOTA Collaboration Center, RIKEN, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Munkhjargal Gochoo
- College of Information Technology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.,School of Information and Communication Technology, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | | | - Shingo Shimoda
- Intelligent Behavior Control Unit, CBS-TOYOTA Collaboration Center, RIKEN, Nagoya, Japan
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13
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Ambrosini E, Gasperini G, Zajc J, Immick N, Augsten A, Rossini M, Ballarati R, Russold M, Ferrante S, Ferrigno G, Bulgheroni M, Baccinelli W, Schauer T, Wiesener C, Gfoehler M, Puchinger M, Weber M, Weber S, Pedrocchi A, Molteni F, Krakow K. A Robotic System with EMG-Triggered Functional Eletrical Stimulation for Restoring Arm Functions in Stroke Survivors. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2021; 35:334-345. [PMID: 33655789 DOI: 10.1177/1545968321997769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robotic systems combined with Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) showed promising results on upper-limb motor recovery after stroke, but adequately-sized randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are still missing. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether arm training supported by RETRAINER, a passive exoskeleton integrated with electromyograph-triggered functional electrical stimulation, is superior to advanced conventional therapy (ACT) of equal intensity in the recovery of arm functions, dexterity, strength, activities of daily living, and quality of life after stroke. METHODS A single-blind RCT recruiting 72 patients was conducted. Patients, randomly allocated to 2 groups, were trained for 9 weeks, 3 times per week: the experimental group performed task-oriented exercises assisted by RETRAINER for 30 minutes plus ACT (60 minutes), whereas the control group performed only ACT (90 minutes). Patients were assessed before, soon after, and 1 month after the end of the intervention. Outcome measures were as follows: Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Motricity Index, Motor Activity Log, Box and Blocks Test (BBT), Stroke Specific Quality of Life Scale (SSQoL), and Muscle Research Council. RESULTS All outcomes but SSQoL significantly improved over time in both groups (P < .001); a significant interaction effect in favor of the experimental group was found for ARAT and BBT. ARAT showed a between-group change of 11.5 points (P = .010) at the end of the intervention, which increased to 13.6 points 1 month after. Patients considered RETRAINER moderately usable (System Usability Score of 61.5 ± 22.8). CONCLUSIONS Hybrid robotic systems, allowing to perform personalized, intensive, and task-oriented training, with an enriched sensory feedback, was superior to ACT in improving arm functions and dexterity after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nancy Immick
- Asklepios Neurologische Klinik Falkenstein, Königstein, Germany
| | - Andreas Augsten
- Asklepios Neurologische Klinik Falkenstein, Königstein, Germany
| | - Mauro Rossini
- Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center, Costamasnaga, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Franco Molteni
- Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center, Costamasnaga, Italy
| | - Karsten Krakow
- Asklepios Neurologische Klinik Falkenstein, Königstein, Germany
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14
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Hijikata N, Kawakami M, Ishii R, Tsuzuki K, Nakamura T, Okuyama K, Liu M. Item Difficulty of Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity in Persons With Chronic Stroke With Moderate-to-Severe Upper Limb Impairment. Front Neurol 2020; 11:577855. [PMID: 33304304 PMCID: PMC7701100 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.577855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Limited research has been conducted with the aim of understanding which upper extremity movements are difficult for persons with severe chronic stroke. The purpose of this study was to test the structure of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) using Rasch analysis in persons with chronic stroke with moderate to severe deficits and to determine the item difficulty hierarchy. Methods: This was a secondary analysis of data from previous randomized, controlled trials, or clinical trials. The participants were 101 persons with chronic stroke with moderate to severe hemiparesis (time after onset of stroke, 1375.3 ± 1157.9 days; the 33-item FMA-UE, 31.1 ± 12.8). Principal component analysis and infit statistics were used to evaluate dimensionality. Rasch analysis using a rating scale model was performed, and item difficulty was determined. Results: Six misfit items were removed. The results showed that the 27-item FMA-UE was unidimensional. Rasch analysis showed that the movements performed within synergies were among the easiest items. Shoulder and elbow movements were among the easiest items, whereas forearm and wrist movements were among the moderately to most difficult items. Hand items spanned various difficulty levels. Discussion and Conclusions: The FMA-UE is a valid assessment tool of upper extremity motor function in persons with chronic stroke with moderate to severe deficits. The results showed that item difficulty was consistent with the stepwise recovery course proposed by Fugl-Meyer. The movements that are difficult for patients with moderate to severe chronic paresis were determined, which would enable comparison of each movement using a measure of motion difficulty in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanako Hijikata
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michiyuki Kawakami
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryota Ishii
- Biostatistics Unit, Clinical and Translational Research Center, Keio University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keita Tsuzuki
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuya Nakamura
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kohei Okuyama
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Meigen Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Nam C, Rong W, Li W, Cheung C, Ngai W, Cheung T, Pang M, Li L, Hu J, Wai H, Hu X. An Exoneuromusculoskeleton for Self-Help Upper Limb Rehabilitation After Stroke. Soft Robot 2020; 9:14-35. [PMID: 33271057 PMCID: PMC8885439 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2020.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This article presents a novel electromyography (EMG)-driven exoneuromusculoskeleton that integrates the neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), soft pneumatic muscle, and exoskeleton techniques, for self-help upper limb training after stroke. The developed system can assist the elbow, wrist, and fingers to perform sequential arm reaching and withdrawing tasks under voluntary effort control through EMG, with a lightweight, compact, and low-power requirement design. The pressure/torque transmission properties of the designed musculoskeletons were quantified, and the assistive capability of the developed system was evaluated on patients with chronic stroke (n = 10). The designed musculoskeletons exerted sufficient mechanical torque to support joint extension for stroke survivors. Compared with the limb performance when no assistance was provided, the limb performance (measured as the range of motion in joint extension) significantly improved when mechanical torque and NMES were provided (p < 0.05). A pilot trial was conducted on patients with chronic stroke (n = 15) to investigate the feasibility of using the developed system in self-help training and the rehabilitation effects of the system. All the participants completed the self-help device-assisted training with minimal professional assistance. After a 20-session training, significant improvements were noted in the voluntary motor function and release of muscle spasticity at the elbow, wrist, and fingers, as indicated by the clinical scores (p < 0.05). The EMG parameters (p < 0.05) indicated that the muscular coordination of the entire upper limb improved significantly after training. The results suggested that the developed system can effectively support self-help upper limb rehabilitation after stroke. ClinicalTrials.gov Register Number NCT03752775.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chingyi Nam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wei Rong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Waiming Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Chingyee Cheung
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wingkit Ngai
- Industrial Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tszching Cheung
- Industrial Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Mankit Pang
- Industrial Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Li Li
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Junyan Hu
- Institute of Textiles and Clothing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Honwah Wai
- Industrial Centre, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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16
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Guo Z, Qian Q, Wong K, Zhu H, Huang Y, Hu X, Zheng Y. Altered Corticomuscular Coherence (CMCoh) Pattern in the Upper Limb During Finger Movements After Stroke. Front Neurol 2020; 11:410. [PMID: 32477257 PMCID: PMC7240065 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Proximal compensation to the distal movements is commonly observed in the affected upper extremity (UE) of patients with chronic stroke. However, the cortical origin of this compensation has not been well-understood. In this study, corticomuscular coherence (CMCoh) and electromyography (EMG) analysis were adopted to investigate the corticomuscular coordinating pattern of proximal UE compensatory activities when conducting distal UE movements in chronic stroke. Method: Fourteen chronic stroke subjects and 10 age-matched unimpaired controls conducted isometric finger extensions and flexions at 20 and 40% of maximal voluntary contractions. Electroencephalogram (EEG) data were recorded from the sensorimotor area and EMG signals were captured from extensor digitorum (ED), flexor digitorum (FD), triceps brachii (TRI), and biceps brachii (BIC) to investigate the CMCoh peak values in the Beta band. EMG parameters, i.e., the EMG activation level and co-contraction index (CI), were analyzed to evaluate the compensatory muscular patterns in the upper limb. Result: The peak CMCoh with statistical significance (P < 0.05) was found shifted from the ipsilesional side to the contralesional side in the proximal UE muscles, while to the central regions in the distal UE muscle in chronic strokes. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in both peak ED and FD CMCohs during finger extensions between the two groups. The unimpaired controls exhibited significant intragroup differences between 20 and 40% levels in extensions for peak ED and FD CMCohs (P < 0.05). The stroke subjects showed significant differences in peak TRI and BIC CMCohs (P < 0.01). No significant inter- or intra-group difference was observed in peak CMCoh during finger flexions. EMG parameters showed higher EMG activation levels in TRI and BIC muscles (P < 0.05), and higher CI values in the muscle pairs involving TRI and BIC during all the extension and flexion tasks in the stroke group than those in the control group (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The post-stroke proximal muscular compensations from the elbow to the finger movements were cortically originated, with the center mainly located in the contralesional hemisphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Guo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Qiuyang Qian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Kiufung Wong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Hanlin Zhu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yanhuan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yongping Zheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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17
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Coscia M, Wessel MJ, Chaudary U, Millán JDR, Micera S, Guggisberg A, Vuadens P, Donoghue J, Birbaumer N, Hummel FC. Neurotechnology-aided interventions for upper limb motor rehabilitation in severe chronic stroke. Brain 2020; 142:2182-2197. [PMID: 31257411 PMCID: PMC6658861 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awz181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 03/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Upper limb motor deficits in severe stroke survivors often remain unresolved over extended time periods. Novel neurotechnologies have the potential to significantly support upper limb motor restoration in severely impaired stroke individuals. Here, we review recent controlled clinical studies and reviews focusing on the mechanisms of action and effectiveness of single and combined technology-aided interventions for upper limb motor rehabilitation after stroke, including robotics, muscular electrical stimulation, brain stimulation and brain computer/machine interfaces. We aim at identifying possible guidance for the optimal use of these new technologies to enhance upper limb motor recovery especially in severe chronic stroke patients. We found that the current literature does not provide enough evidence to support strict guidelines, because of the variability of the procedures for each intervention and of the heterogeneity of the stroke population. The present results confirm that neurotechnology-aided upper limb rehabilitation is promising for severe chronic stroke patients, but the combination of interventions often lacks understanding of single intervention mechanisms of action, which may not reflect the summation of single intervention’s effectiveness. Stroke rehabilitation is a long and complex process, and one single intervention administrated in a short time interval cannot have a large impact for motor recovery, especially in severely impaired patients. To design personalized interventions combining or proposing different interventions in sequence, it is necessary to have an excellent understanding of the mechanisms determining the effectiveness of a single treatment in this heterogeneous population of stroke patients. We encourage the identification of objective biomarkers for stroke recovery for patients’ stratification and to tailor treatments. Furthermore, the advantage of longitudinal personalized trial designs compared to classical double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials as the basis for precise personalized stroke rehabilitation medicine is discussed. Finally, we also promote the necessary conceptual change from ‘one-suits-all’ treatments within in-patient clinical rehabilitation set-ups towards personalized home-based treatment strategies, by adopting novel technologies merging rehabilitation and motor assistance, including implantable ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Coscia
- Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maximilian J Wessel
- Defitech Chair in Clinical Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics (CNP) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.,Defitech Chair in Clinical Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics (CNP) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL Valais), Clinique Romande de Réadaptation, 1951 Sion, Switzerland
| | - Ujwal Chaudary
- Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - José Del R Millán
- Defitech Chair in Brain-Machine Interface, Center for Neuroprosthetics, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Silvestro Micera
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland.,Translational Neural Engineering Area, The Biorobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, 56025, Italy
| | - Adrian Guggisberg
- Clinical Neuroscience, University of Geneva Medical School, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - John Donoghue
- Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Neuroscience, Brown University, Providence, RI 02906, USA
| | - Niels Birbaumer
- Wyss Center for Bio and Neuroengineering, Chemin des Mines 9, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.,Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Neurobiology, University Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Friedhelm C Hummel
- Defitech Chair in Clinical Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics (CNP) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), 1202 Geneva, Switzerland.,Defitech Chair in Clinical Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics (CNP) and Brain Mind Institute (BMI), School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL Valais), Clinique Romande de Réadaptation, 1951 Sion, Switzerland.,Clinical Neuroscience, University of Geneva Medical School, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
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18
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A comparison of the rehabilitation effectiveness of neuromuscular electrical stimulation robotic hand training and pure robotic hand training after stroke: A randomized controlled trial. Biomed Signal Process Control 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2019.101723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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19
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Ambrosini E, Zajc J, Ferrante S, Ferrigno G, Dalla Gasperina S, Bulgheroni M, Baccinelli W, Schauer T, Wiesener C, Russold M, Gfoehler M, Puchinger M, Weber M, Becker S, Krakow K, Immick N, Augsten A, Rossini M, Proserpio D, Gasperini G, Molteni F, Pedrocchi A. A Hybrid Robotic System for Arm Training of Stroke Survivors: Concept and First Evaluation. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2019; 66:3290-3300. [DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2019.2900525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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20
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Singh N, Saini M, Anand S, Kumar N, Srivastava MVP, Mehndiratta A. Robotic Exoskeleton for Wrist and Fingers Joint in Post-Stroke Neuro-Rehabilitation for Low-Resource Settings. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2019; 27:2369-2377. [PMID: 31545737 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2019.2943005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Robots have the potential to help provide exercise therapy in a repeatable and reproducible manner for stroke survivors. To facilitate rehabilitation of the wrist and fingers joint, an electromechanical exoskeleton was developed that simultaneously moves the wrist and metacarpophalangeal joints. The device was designed for the ease of manufacturing and maintenance, with specific considerations for countries with limited resources. Active participation of the user is ensured by the implementation of electromyographic control and visual feedback of performance. Muscle activity requirements, movement parameters, range of motion and speed, of the device can all be customized to meet the needs of the user. Twelve stroke survivors, ranging from the subacute to chronic phases of recovery (mean 10.6 months post-stroke) participated in a pilot study with the device. Participants completed 20 sessions, each lasting 45 minutes. Overall, subjects exhibited statistically significant changes (p < 0.05) in clinical outcome measures following the treatment, with the Fugl-Meyer Stroke Assessment score for the upper extremity increasing from 36 to 50 and the Barthel Index increasing from 74 to 89. Active range of wrist motion increased by 19° while spasticity decreased from 1.75 to 1.29 on the Modified Ashworth Scale. Thus, this device shows promise for improving rehabilitation outcomes, especially for patients in countries with limited resources.
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21
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Abstract
Orthotic devices are defined as externally applied devices that are used to modify the structural and functional characteristics of the neuro-muscular and skeletal systems. The aim of the current study is to improve the control and movement of a robotic arm orthosis by means of an intelligent optimization system. Firstly, the control problem settlement is defined with the muscle, brain, and arm model. Subsequently, the optimization control, which based on a differential evolution algorithm, is developed to calculate the optimum gain values. Additionally, a cost function is defined in order to control and minimize the effort that is made by the subject and to assure that the algorithm follows as close as possible the defined setpoint value. The results show that, with the optimization algorithm, the necessary development force of the muscles is close to zero and the neural excitation level of biceps and triceps signal values are getting lower with a gain increase. Furthermore, the necessary development force of the biceps muscle to overcome a load added to the orthosis control system is practically the half of the one that is necessary without the optimization algorithm.
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22
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Qian Q, Nam C, Guo Z, Huang Y, Hu X, Ng SC, Zheng Y, Poon W. Distal versus proximal - an investigation on different supportive strategies by robots for upper limb rehabilitation after stroke: a randomized controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2019; 16:64. [PMID: 31159822 PMCID: PMC6545723 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-019-0537-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Different mechanical supporting strategies to the joints in the upper extremity (UE) may lead to varied rehabilitative effects after stroke. This study compared the rehabilitation effectiveness achieved by electromyography (EMG)-driven neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)-robotic systems when supporting to the distal fingers and to the proximal (wrist-elbow) joints. Methods Thirty subjects with chronic stroke were randomly assigned to receive motor trainings with NMES-robotic support to the finger joints (hand group, n = 15) and with support to the wrist-elbow joints (sleeve group, n = 15). The training effects were evaluated by the clinical scores of Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) before and after the trainings, as well as 3 months later. The cross-session EMG monitoring of EMG activation level and co-contraction index (CI) were also applied to investigate the recovery progress of muscle activations and muscle coordination patterns through the training sessions. Results Significant improvements (P < 0.05) in FMA full score, FMA shoulder/elbow (FMA-SE) and ARAT scores were found in both groups, whereas significant improvements (P < 0.05) in FMA wrist/hand (FMA-WH) and MAS scores were only observed in the hand group. Significant decrease of EMG activation levels (P < 0.05) of UE flexors was observed in both groups. Significant decrease in CI values (P < 0.05) was observed in both groups in the muscle pairs of biceps brachii and triceps brachii (BIC&TRI) and the wrist-finger flexors (flexor carpi radialis-flexor digitorum) and TRI (FCR-FD&TRI). The EMG activation levels and CIs of the hand group exhibited faster reductions across the training sessions than the sleeve group (P < 0.05). Conclusions Robotic supports to either the distal fingers or the proximal elbow-wrist could achieve motor improvements in UE. The robotic support directly to the distal fingers was more effective than to the proximal parts in improving finger motor functions and in releasing muscle spasticity in the whole UE. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02117089; date of registration: April 10, 2014. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02117089
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyang Qian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Chingyi Nam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Ziqi Guo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yanhuan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
| | - Stephanie C Ng
- Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
| | - Yongping Zheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Waisang Poon
- Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong
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McCabe JP, Henniger D, Perkins J, Skelly M, Tatsuoka C, Pundik S. Feasibility and clinical experience of implementing a myoelectric upper limb orthosis in the rehabilitation of chronic stroke patients: A clinical case series report. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215311. [PMID: 30978249 PMCID: PMC6461279 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Individuals with stroke are often left with persistent upper limb dysfunction, even after treatment with traditional rehabilitation methods. The purpose of this retrospective study is to demonstrate feasibility of the implementation of an upper limb myoelectric orthosis for the treatment of persistent moderate upper limb impairment following stroke (>6 months). Methods: Nine patients (>6 months post stroke) participated in treatment at an outpatient Occupational Therapy department utilizing the MyoPro myoelectric orthotic device. Group therapy was provided at a frequency of 1–2 sessions per week (60–90 minutes per session). Patients were instructed to perform training with the device at home on non-therapy days and to continue with use of the device after completion of the group training period. Outcome measures included Fugl-Meyer Upper Limb Assessment (FM) and modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Results: Patients demonstrated clinically important and statistically significant improvement of 9.0±4.8 points (p = 0.0005) on a measure of motor control impairment (FM) during participation in group training. It was feasible to administer the training in a group setting with the MyoPro, using a 1:4 ratio (therapist to patients). Muscle tone improved for muscles with MAS >1.5 at baseline. Discussion: Myoelectric orthosis use is feasible in a group clinic setting and in home-use structure for chronic stroke survivors. Clinically important motor control gains were observed on FM in 7 of 9 patients who participated in training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P. McCabe
- Brain Plasticity and NeuroRecovery Laboratory, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Dennyse Henniger
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Jessica Perkins
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Margaret Skelly
- Brain Plasticity and NeuroRecovery Laboratory, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Curtis Tatsuoka
- Department of Biostatistics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Svetlana Pundik
- Brain Plasticity and NeuroRecovery Laboratory, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Neurology Service, Louis Stokes Cleveland Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- Department of Neurology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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24
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Washabaugh EP, Treadway E, Gillespie RB, Remy CD, Krishnan C. Self-powered robots to reduce motor slacking during upper-extremity rehabilitation: a proof of concept study. Restor Neurol Neurosci 2019; 36:693-708. [PMID: 30400120 DOI: 10.3233/rnn-180830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robotic rehabilitation is a highly promising approach to recover lost functions after stroke or other neurological disorders. Unfortunately, robotic rehabilitation currently suffers from "motor slacking", a phenomenon in which the human motor system reduces muscle activation levels and movement excursions, ostensibly to minimize metabolic- and movement-related costs. Consequently, the patient remains passive and is not fully engaged during therapy. To overcome this limitation, we envision a new class of body-powered robots and hypothesize that motor slacking could be reduced if individuals must provide the power to move their impaired limbs via their own body (i.e., through the motion of a healthy limb). OBJECTIVE To test whether a body-powered exoskeleton (i.e. robot) could reduce motor slacking during robotic training. METHODS We developed a body-powered robot that mechanically coupled the motions of the user's elbow joints. We tested this passive robot in two groups of subjects (stroke and able-bodied) during four exercise conditions in which we controlled whether the robotic device was powered by the subject or by the experimenter, and whether the subject's driven arm was engaged or at rest. Motor slacking was quantified by computing the muscle activation changes of the elbow flexor and extensor muscles using surface electromyography. RESULTS Subjects had higher levels of muscle activation in their driven arm during self-powered conditions compared to externally-powered conditions. Most notably, subjects unintentionally activated their driven arm even when explicitly told to relax when the device was self-powered. This behavior was persistent throughout the trial and did not wane after the initiation of the trial. CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide novel evidence indicating that motor slacking can be reduced by self-powered robots; thus demonstrating promise for rehabilitation of impaired subjects using this new class of wearable system. The results also serve as a foundation to develop more sophisticated body-powered robots (e.g., with controllable transmissions) for rehabilitation purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward P Washabaugh
- NeuRRo Lab, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Emma Treadway
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - R Brent Gillespie
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Michigan Robotics Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - C David Remy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Michigan Robotics Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Chandramouli Krishnan
- NeuRRo Lab, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Michigan Robotics Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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25
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Niu CM, Bao Y, Zhuang C, Li S, Wang T, Cui L, Xie Q, Lan N. Synergy-Based FES for Post-Stroke Rehabilitation of Upper-Limb Motor Functions. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2019; 27:256-264. [DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2019.2891004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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26
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Cheung VCK, Niu CM, Li S, Xie Q, Lan N. A Novel FES Strategy for Poststroke Rehabilitation Based on the Natural Organization of Neuromuscular Control. IEEE Rev Biomed Eng 2019; 12:154-167. [DOI: 10.1109/rbme.2018.2874132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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27
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Huang Y, Lai WP, Qian Q, Hu X, Tam EWC, Zheng Y. Translation of robot-assisted rehabilitation to clinical service: a comparison of the rehabilitation effectiveness of EMG-driven robot hand assisted upper limb training in practical clinical service and in clinical trial with laboratory configuration for chronic stroke. Biomed Eng Online 2018; 17:91. [PMID: 29941043 PMCID: PMC6019523 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-018-0516-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rehabilitation robots can provide intensive physical training after stroke. However, variations of the rehabilitation effects in translation from well-controlled research studies to clinical services have not been well evaluated yet. This study aims to compare the rehabilitation effects of the upper limb training by an electromyography (EMG)-driven robotic hand achieved in a well-controlled research environment and in a practical clinical service. METHODS It was a non-randomized controlled trial, and thirty-two participants with chronic stroke were recruited either in the clinical service (n = 16, clinic group), or in the research setting (n = 16, lab group). Each participant received 20-session EMG-driven robotic hand assisted upper limb training. The training frequency (4 sessions/week) and the pace in a session were fixed for the lab group, while they were flexible (1-3 sessions/week) and adaptive for the clinic group. The training effects were evaluated before and after the treatment with clinical scores of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). RESULTS Significant improvements in the FMA full score, shoulder/elbow and wrist/hand (P < 0.001), ARAT (P < 0.001), and MAS elbow (P < 0.05) were observed after the training for both groups. Significant improvements in the FIM (P < 0.05), MAS wrist (P < 0.001) and MAS hand (P < 0.05) were only obtained after the training in the clinic group. Compared with the lab group, higher FIM improvement in the clinic group was observed (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The functional improvements after the robotic hand training in the clinical service were comparable to the effectiveness achieved in the research setting, through flexible training schedules even with a lower training frequency every week. Higher independence in the daily living and a more effective release in muscle tones were achieved in the clinic group than the lab group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhuan Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Will Poyan Lai
- Jockey Club Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Qiuyang Qian
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eric W. C. Tam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
- Jockey Club Rehabilitation Engineering Clinic, Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yongping Zheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
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28
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Nam C, Rong W, Li W, Xie Y, Hu X, Zheng Y. The Effects of Upper-Limb Training Assisted with an Electromyography-Driven Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Robotic Hand on Chronic Stroke. Front Neurol 2017; 8:679. [PMID: 29312116 PMCID: PMC5735084 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2017.00679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Impaired hand dexterity is a major disability of the upper limb after stroke. An electromyography (EMG)-driven neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) robotic hand was designed previously, whereas its rehabilitation effects were not investigated. Objectives This study aims to investigate the rehabilitation effectiveness of the EMG-driven NMES-robotic hand-assisted upper-limb training on persons with chronic stroke. Method A clinical trial with single-group design was conducted on chronic stroke participants (n = 15) who received 20 sessions of EMG-driven NMES-robotic hand-assisted upper-limb training. The training effects were evaluated by pretraining, posttraining, and 3-month follow-up assessments with the clinical scores of the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), the Wolf Motor Function Test, the Motor Functional Independence Measure, and the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Improvements in the muscle coordination across the sessions were investigated by EMG parameters, including EMG activation level and Co-contraction Indexes (CIs) of the target muscles in the upper limb. Results Significant improvements in the FMA shoulder/elbow and wrist/hand scores (P < 0.05), the ARAT (P < 0.05), and in the MAS (P < 0.05) were observed after the training and sustained 3 months later. The EMG parameters indicated a significant decrease of the muscle activation level in flexor digitorum (FD) and biceps brachii (P < 0.05), as well as a significant reduction of CIs in the muscle pairs of FD and triceps brachii and biceps brachii and triceps brachii (P < 0.05). Conclusion The upper-limb training integrated with the assistance from the EMG-driven NMES-robotic hand is effective for the improvements of the voluntary motor functions and the muscle coordination in the proximal and distal joints. Furthermore, the motor improvement after the training could be maintained till 3 months later. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov. NCT02117089; date of registration: April 10, 2014.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chingyi Nam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Wei Rong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Waiming Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Yunong Xie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaoling Hu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
| | - Yongping Zheng
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong
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Ambrosini E, Ferrante S, Zajc J, Bulgheroni M, Baccinelli W, d'Amico E, Schauer T, Wiesener C, Russold M, Gfoehler M, Puchinger M, Weber M, Becker S, Krakow K, Rossini M, Proserpio D, Gasperini G, Molteni F, Ferrigno G, Pedrocchi A. The combined action of a passive exoskeleton and an EMG-controlled neuroprosthesis for upper limb stroke rehabilitation: First results of the RETRAINER project. IEEE Int Conf Rehabil Robot 2017; 2017:56-61. [PMID: 28813793 DOI: 10.1109/icorr.2017.8009221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The combined use of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) and robotic technologies is advocated to improve rehabilitation outcomes after stroke. This work describes an arm rehabilitation system developed within the European project RETRAINER. The system consists of a passive 4-degrees-of-freedom exoskeleton equipped with springs to provide gravity compensation and electromagnetic brakes to hold target positions. FES is integrated in the system to provide additional support to the most impaired muscles. FES is triggered based on the volitional EMG signal of the same stimulated muscle; in order to encourage the active involvement of the patient the volitional EMG is also monitored throughout the task execution and based on it a happy or sad emoji is visualized at the end of each task. The control interface control of the system provides a GUI and multiple software tools to organize rehabilitation exercises and monitor rehabilitation progress. The functionality and the usability of the system was evaluated on four stroke patients. All patients were able to use the system and judged positively its wearability and the provided support. They were able to trigger the stimulation based on their residual muscle activity and provided different levels of active involvement in the exercise, in agreement with their level of impairment. A randomized controlled trial aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the RETRAINER system to improve arm function after stroke is currently ongoing.
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