MyHand: An Active Hand Orthosis for Stroke Patients

MyHand: An Active Hand Orthosis for Stroke Patients

This study seeks to explore the efficacy of several control mechanisms for the device and the impact of a device training program on its utility as a neuroprosthetic and training tool for upper limb recovery.

Hand rehabilitation through occupational therapy is critical for many stroke survivors, but it is also greatly limited by insurance coverage, shortage of therapists, and logistic constraints. To address this, stroke patients need a rehabilitation method they can use on their own, without direct clinical supervision, and for activities of daily living. MyHand is a wearable and active hand orthosis consisting of a glove and forearm splint, equipped with actuators and tendons which connect to the fingers.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subjects over 18 years of age
• History of stroke resulting in significant upper limb impairment
• Full passive range of motion
• Gross control of the proximal upper extremity
• Lacks timely grasp/release
• No more than moderate flexor tone
• Intact cognition

Exclusion criteria include:

• Other Neurological/orthopedic disorders
• Excessive spasticity/contracture