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BackgroundImpaired use of the hand in functional tasks remains difficult to overcome in many individuals after a stroke. This often leads to compensation strategies using the less-affected limb, which allows for independence in some aspects of daily activities. However, recovery of hand function remains an important therapeutic goal of many individuals, and is often resistant to conventional therapies. In prior work, we developed HEXORR I, a robotic device that allows practice of finger and thumb movements with robotic assistance. In this study, we describe modifications to the device, now called HEXORR II, and a clinical trial in individuals with chronic stroke. MethodsFifteen individuals with a diagnosis of chronic stroke were randomized to 12 or 24 sessions of robotic therapy. The sessions involved playing several video games using thumb and finger movement. The robot applied assistance to extension movement that was adapted based on task performance. Clinical and motion capture evaluations were performed before and after training and again at a 6 month followup. ResultsFourteen individuals completed the protocol. Fugl-Meyer scores improved significantly over the 3 time points, indicating reductions in upper extremity impairment. Flexor hypertonia (Ashworth) also decreased significantly due to the intervention. Motion capture found increased finger range of motion and extension ability when the arm was supported by gravity. However, extension ability did not improve significantly during a reach and grasp task, and there was no change in a functional measure (Action Research Arm Test). At the followup, the high dose group had significant gains in hand displacement during a forward reach task. There were no other significant differences between groups. ConclusionsFuture work with HEXORR II should focus on integrating it with functional task practice and incorporating grip and squeezing tasks. Trial registration: CLINICALTRIALS.GOV, NCT04536987. Registered 3 September 2020 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT04536987 |
