Differential Effectiveness of Robotic Assisted Therapy on Upper Extremity Function in Patients With Chronic Stroke

Differential Effectiveness of Robotic Assisted Therapy on Upper Extremity Function and Health Related Outcomes in Patients With Chronic Stroke: a Comparison of Exoskeleton vs. End Effector Training Systems

The objectives of this study are to: determine the effects of exoskeleton vs. end effector training systems on upper extremity motor and physiological function, daily functions, quality of life and self-efficacy in patients with chronic stroke.

According to the theory and literature review, there are two hypotheses in this study. One is that exoskeleton training system has better benefits than end-effector training system in motion control techniques, joint mobility and muscle tone control. Second, end-effector training system has better benefits than exoskeleton training system in the functional activity level and daily life participation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Chronic Stroke more than 3 months.
• FMA score 29~59.
• Modified Ashworth Scale proximal part ≤ 3, Modified Ashworth Scale distal part ≤ 2, and no serious muscle spasms.
• Mini Mental State Examination ≥ 24 and no serious cognitive impairment.
• Learn more about the research content and can provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Other neurological disease
• Inability to understand instructions
• current participation in any other research
• Botulinum Toxin injection within 3 months