Effectiveness of Robot-assisted Rehabilitation in Persons With Stroke

Effectiveness of Robot-assisted Rehabilitation on Upper Limb Function and Neuroplasticity in Persons With Stroke

This study is to investigate the effects of robot-assisted hand with visual feedback intervention on cortical excitability, brain structure, spasiticity, gross and fine motor of upper limb and hand in individuals with stroke. Twenty participants will be recruited in this study. They will be allocated to two group: robot-assisted hand combined with traditional occupational therapy group (10), only traditional occupational therapy group (10).

Participants will be randomized allocated to two groups: robot-assisted hand combined with traditional occupational therapy (OT) group and traditional OT group. All participants underwent six weeks, 3 sessions per week, and 60 minutes per session training program. Motor Evoked Potential (MEP), Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Box and Block Test (BBT) and Purdue Pegboard Test (PPT) will be assessed before and after intervention in all participants.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Mini-Mental State Examination score is above 23
2. A first-ever stroke with unilateral hemiplegia or hemiparesis.
3. Medical and psychological condition is stable.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Balance and walking ability affected by other neurological problems
2. Functional performance affected by medication or medical condition 3 Unable to tolerate rehabilitation.

4. Severe hearing or visual problem. 5. Having pacemaker.