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Lin PJ, Li W, Zhai X, Li Z, Sun J, Xu Q, Pan Y, Ji L, Li C. Explainable Deep-Learning Prediction for Brain-Computer Interfaces Supported Lower Extremity Motor Gains Based on Multistate Fusion. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2024; 32:1546-1555. [PMID: 38578854 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2024.3384498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Predicting the potential for recovery of motor function in stroke patients who undergo specific rehabilitation treatments is an important and major challenge. Recently, electroencephalography (EEG) has shown potential in helping to determine the relationship between cortical neural activity and motor recovery. EEG recorded in different states could more accurately predict motor recovery than single-state recordings. Here, we design a multi-state (combining eyes closed, EC, and eyes open, EO) fusion neural network for predicting the motor recovery of patients with stroke after EEG-brain-computer-interface (BCI) rehabilitation training and use an explainable deep learning method to identify the most important features of EEG power spectral density and functional connectivity contributing to prediction. The prediction accuracy of the multi-states fusion network was 82%, significantly improved compared with a single-state model. The neural network explanation result demonstrated the important region and frequency oscillation bands. Specifically, in those two states, power spectral density and functional connectivity were shown as the regions and bands related to motor recovery in frontal, central, and occipital. Moreover, the motor recovery relation in bands, the power spectrum density shows the bands at delta and alpha bands. The functional connectivity shows the delta, theta, and alpha bands in the EC state; delta, theta, and beta mid at the EO state are related to motor recovery. Multi-state fusion neural networks, which combine multiple states of EEG signals into a single network, can increase the accuracy of predicting motor recovery after BCI training, and reveal the underlying mechanisms of motor recovery in brain activity.
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e Siqueira TB, Parraça J, Sousa JP. Available rehabilitation technology with the potential to be incorporated into the clinical practice of physiotherapists: A systematic review. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e1920. [PMID: 38605728 PMCID: PMC11007654 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1920] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The development of prototypes capable of intervening in the area of rehabilitation in physical therapy clinical practice activities that were previously carried out in a traditional way, that is, manually, demonstrates how technology is having an impact on professional careers such as physiotherapy. Objective The purpose of this study is to present a comprehensive examination of various technologies employed in the facilitation of patient rehabilitation, with a focus on their potential integration within the clinical practice of physical therapists. Methods We conducted a systematic search in four electronic databases (CINAHL, Embase, PEDro, and PubMed) for research on rehabilitation technologies. The eligible studies should demonstrate a clear utilization of technology in various aspects of the clinical approach to the rehabilitation process and have been published between 2000 and 2021 in either Portuguese or English. Results A total of 18 articles that satisfied the selection criteria were included in the study. The studies were classified into four distinct categories of rehabilitation technologies, which were determined by the specific characteristics of the technology employed and its integration with the therapeutic approach to rehabilitation. These categories include digital technologies, artificial intelligence and/or robotics, virtual technologies, and hybrid technologies. Implications on Physiotherapy Practice Rehabilitation technologies possess the capacity to effectively facilitate clinical activities performed by physical therapy professionals, including injury prevention, movement monitoring, and coordination of rehabilitation programs, with minimal or negligible intervention from the physical therapist. Further research is required to ascertain the precise capabilities of various technologies in collaborating with physiotherapists to deliver comprehensive care for patients' physical well-being, encompassing both therapeutic and preventive approaches. Trial Registration PROSPERO registration number CRD42020222288.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarciano Batista e Siqueira
- School of Health and Human DevelopmentUniversity of ÉvoraÉvoraPortugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC)EvoraPortugal
| | - José Parraça
- School of Health and Human DevelopmentUniversity of ÉvoraÉvoraPortugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC)EvoraPortugal
| | - João Paulo Sousa
- School of Health and Human DevelopmentUniversity of ÉvoraÉvoraPortugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC)EvoraPortugal
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Kanade-Mehta P, Bengtson M, Stoeckmann T, McGuire J, Ghez C, Scheidt RA. Spatial mapping of posture-dependent resistance to passive displacement of the hypertonic arm post-stroke. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:163. [PMID: 38041164 PMCID: PMC10693118 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01285-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Muscles in the post-stroke arm commonly demonstrate abnormal reflexes that result in increased position- and velocity-dependent resistance to movement. We sought to develop a reliable way to quantify mechanical consequences of abnormal neuromuscular mechanisms throughout the reachable workspace in the hemiparetic arm post-stroke. METHODS Survivors of hemiparetic stroke (HS) and neurologically intact (NI) control subjects were instructed to relax as a robotic device repositioned the hand of their hemiparetic arm between several testing locations that sampled the arm's passive range of motion. During transitions, the robot induced motions at either the shoulder or elbow joint at three speeds: very slow (6°/s), medium (30°/s), and fast (90°/s). The robot held the hand at the testing location for at least 20 s after each transition. We recorded and analyzed hand force and electromyographic activations from selected muscles spanning the shoulder and elbow joints during and after transitions. RESULTS Hand forces and electromyographic activations were invariantly small at all speeds and all sample times in NI control subjects but varied systematically by transport speed during and shortly after movement in the HS subjects. Velocity-dependent resistance to stretch diminished within 2 s after movement ceased in the hemiparetic arms. Hand forces and EMGs changed very little from 2 s after the movement ended onward, exhibiting dependence on limb posture but no systematic dependence on movement speed or direction. Although each HS subject displayed a unique field of hand forces and EMG responses across the workspace after movement ceased, the magnitude of steady-state hand forces was generally greater near the outer boundaries of the workspace than in the center of the workspace for the HS group but not the NI group. CONCLUSIONS In the HS group, electromyographic activations exhibited abnormalities consistent with stroke-related decreases in the stretch reflex thresholds. These observations were consistent across repeated testing days. We expect that the approach described here will enable future studies to elucidate stroke's impact on the interaction between the neural mechanisms mediating control of upper extremity posture and movement during goal-directed actions such as reaching and pointing with the arm and hand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Kanade-Mehta
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin, Engineering Hall, Rm 342, P.O. Box 1881, Milwaukee, WI, 53201-1881, USA
| | - Maria Bengtson
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin, Engineering Hall, Rm 342, P.O. Box 1881, Milwaukee, WI, 53201-1881, USA
| | - Tina Stoeckmann
- Department of Physical Therapy, Marquette University, Milwaukee, USA
| | - John McGuire
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA
| | - Claude Ghez
- Department of Neuroscience, Neurology, and Physiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Robert A Scheidt
- Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University and the Medical College of Wisconsin, Engineering Hall, Rm 342, P.O. Box 1881, Milwaukee, WI, 53201-1881, USA.
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Campanini I, Bò MC, Bassi MC, Damiano B, Scaltriti S, Lusuardi M, Merlo A. Outcome measures for assessing the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions on equinus foot deformity in post-stroke patients with triceps surae spasticity: A scoping review. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287220. [PMID: 37824499 PMCID: PMC10569611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Equinus foot deformity (EFD) is the most common deviation after stroke. Several physiotherapy interventions have been suggested to treat it. However, studies evaluating the efficacy of these treatments vary widely in terms of assessment modalities, type of data analysis, and nomenclature. This scoping review aimed to map current available evidence on outcome measures and the modalities employed to assess the effectiveness of physiotherapy programs for the reduction of triceps surae (TS) spasticity and EFD in patients with stroke. METHODS Scoping review methodological frameworks have been used. Three databases were investigated. Primary literature addressing TS spasticity in adult patients with stroke using physiotherapy interventions was included. Findings were systematically summarized in tables according to the intervention used, intervention dosage, control group, clinical, and instrumental outcome measures. RESULTS Of the 642 retrieved studies, 53 papers were included. TS spasticity was assessed by manual maneuvers performed by clinicians (mainly using the Ashworth Scale), functional tests, mechanical evaluation through robotic devices, or instrumental analysis and imaging (such as the torque-angle ratio, the H-reflex, and ultrasound images). A thorough critical appraisal of the construct validity of the scales and of the statistics employed was provided, particularly focusing on the choice of parametric and non-parametric approaches when using ordinal scales. Finally, the complexity surrounding the concept of "spasticity" and the possibility of assessing the several underlying active and passive causes of EFD, with a consequent bespoke treatment for each of them, was discussed. CONCLUSION This scoping review provides a comprehensive description of all outcome measures and assessment modalities used in literature to assess the effectiveness of physiotherapy treatments, when used for the reduction of TS spasticity and EFD in patients with stroke. Clinicians and researchers can find an easy-to-consult summary that can support both their clinical and research activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Campanini
- Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, LAM–Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Correggio (Reggio Emilia), Correggio, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Bò
- Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, LAM–Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Correggio (Reggio Emilia), Correggio, Italy
- Merlo Bioengineering, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Benedetta Damiano
- Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, LAM–Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Correggio (Reggio Emilia), Correggio, Italy
| | - Sara Scaltriti
- Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, LAM–Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Correggio (Reggio Emilia), Correggio, Italy
| | - Mirco Lusuardi
- Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, Azienda USL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, Correggio, Italy
| | - Andrea Merlo
- Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, LAM–Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, Azienda USL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Correggio (Reggio Emilia), Correggio, Italy
- Merlo Bioengineering, Parma, Italy
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Campanini I, Bò MC, Salsi F, Bassi MC, Damiano B, Scaltriti S, Lusuardi M, Merlo A. Physical therapy interventions for the correction of equinus foot deformity in post-stroke patients with triceps spasticity: A scoping review. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1026850. [DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1026850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveEquinus foot deformity (EFD) is the most common deformity following a stroke. Several approaches have been suggested for its correction, including pharmacological, surgical, and physical therapy (PT) interventions. This scoping review aims to map and synthesize the available evidence focusing on physical therapy treatments for EFD caused by triceps surae (TS) spasticity.MethodsScoping review methodological frameworks have been used. Pubmed, Cinahl, and Cochrane databases were searched for primary literature. Studies focusing on the treatment of EFD in adult stroke patients were included only when the intervention involved PT treatments and presented at least one outcome measure for the functional and/or structural condition of the TS. Data were systematically collected and reported in tables inclusive of type of intervention, sample characteristics, dosage, comparators, outcomes, follow-up timeline, and treatment efficacy. A narrative synthesis was also added.ResultsOf the 642 experimental or observational screened studies, 53 were included, focusing on stretching exercises, shock waves, electrical stimulation, dry needling, TENS, vibration therapy, ultrasounds, cryotherapy, and active physiotherapy. Patients with EFD benefited from specific physical therapy treatments. These usually resulted in Modified Ashworth Scale reduction, typically by 1 point, and an increase in ROM. Interventions consisting of shock waves, dry needling, and electrostimulation showed the best results in reducing EFD. Heterogeneous dosage and delivery mode generally limited conclusions.ConclusionsThis scoping review summarized available primary literature based on PT treatments for the correction of EFD. By highlighting the remaining gaps in knowledge, it provides a reference for future studies on this pathology. Further investigations are necessary to pinpoint the best dosage and delivery methods. Future studies should investigate whether early rehabilitation programs started during the acute phase might help prevent or limit the development of secondary deformities.
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Dostalova K, Tomasek R, Kalova M, Janura M, Rosicky J, Schnitzer M, Demel J. Review of ankle rehabilitation devices for treatment of equinus contracture. Expert Rev Med Devices 2022; 19:721-731. [PMID: 36225151 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2022.2136029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Equinus contracture is a serious disability and attention should be paid to proper and effective treatment. Most attention is given to neurologically impaired patients, but the incidence of equinus contracture is much higher, for example, in post-traumatic patients. In addition to conventional physical therapy, robotic rehabilitation treatment is one of the promising procedures to precede severe contraction cases and the need for surgery. AREAS COVERED This study aims to cover the description of different types of stationary and wearable ankle rehabilitation devices suitable for the treatment of equinus contracture and point to deficiency in research, clinical trials, and launch of the market. EXPERT OPINION This review provides insight into ankle rehabilitation devices with a focus on equinus contracture. Due to the fact that robotic devices successfully restore the condition of patients, attention should not be paid only to those with neurological impairments. This paper points that future research should be effectively linked to clinical practice with the aim of covering a wider range of disabilities and make an effort to successfully introduce devices from development into the practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Dostalova
- Center of Advanced Innovation Technologies, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, CZ
| | - Radek Tomasek
- Center of Advanced Innovation Technologies, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, CZ
| | - Martina Kalova
- Center of Advanced Innovation Technologies, VSB-Technical University of Ostrava, CZ
| | | | | | - Marek Schnitzer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Measurement, Technical University of Kosice, SK
| | - Jiri Demel
- Institute of Emergency Medicine, University of Ostrava, CZ.,Trauma Center, Faculty Hospital of Ostrava, CZ
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Martinez-Lozano E, Beeram I, Yeritsyan D, Grinstaff MW, Snyder BD, Nazarian A, Rodriguez EK. Management of arthrofibrosis in neuromuscular disorders: a review. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2022; 23:725. [PMID: 35906570 PMCID: PMC9336011 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-022-05677-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Arthrofibrosis, or rigid contracture of major articular joints, is a significant morbidity of many neurodegenerative disorders. The pathogenesis depends on the mechanism and severity of the precipitating neuromuscular disorder. Most neuromuscular disorders, whether spastic or hypotonic, culminate in decreased joint range of motion. Limited range of motion precipitates a cascade of pathophysiological changes in the muscle-tendon unit, the joint capsule, and the articular cartilage. Resulting joint contractures limit functional mobility, posing both physical and psychosocial burdens to patients, economic burdens on the healthcare system, and lost productivity to society. This article reviews the pathophysiology of arthrofibrosis in the setting of neuromuscular disorders. We describe current non-surgical and surgical interventions for treating arthrofibrosis of commonly affected joints. In addition, we preview several promising modalities under development to ameliorate arthrofibrosis non-surgically and discuss limitations in the field of arthrofibrosis secondary to neuromuscular disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edith Martinez-Lozano
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Indeevar Beeram
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Diana Yeritsyan
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Mark W Grinstaff
- Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, and Medicine, Boston University, 330 Brookline Avenue, Stoneman 10, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Brian D Snyder
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ara Nazarian
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Yerevan State Medical University, Yerevan, 0025, Armenia
| | - Edward K Rodriguez
- Musculoskeletal Translational Innovation Initiative, Carl J. Shapiro Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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Effectiveness of Platform-Based Robot-Assisted Rehabilitation for Musculoskeletal or Neurologic Injuries: A Systematic Review. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9040129. [PMID: 35447689 PMCID: PMC9029074 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9040129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last ten years the use of robotic-assisted rehabilitation has increased significantly. Compared with traditional care, robotic rehabilitation has several potential advantages. Platform-based robotic rehabilitation can help patients recover from musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Evidence on how platform-based robotic technologies can positively impact on disability recovery is still lacking, and it is unclear which intervention is most effective in individual cases. This systematic review aims to evaluate the effectiveness of platform-based robotic rehabilitation for individuals with musculoskeletal or neurological injuries. Thirty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria and evaluated the efficacy of platform-based rehabilitation robots. Our findings showed that rehabilitation with platform-based robots produced some encouraging results. Among the platform-based robots studied, the VR-based Rutgers Ankle and the Hunova were found to be the most effective robots for the rehabilitation of patients with neurological conditions (stroke, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s disease) and various musculoskeletal ankle injuries. Our results were drawn mainly from studies with low-level evidence, and we think that our conclusions should be taken with caution to some extent and that further studies are needed to better evaluate the effectiveness of platform-based robotic rehabilitation devices.
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Bayram KB, Şengül İ, Aşkin A, Tosun A. Inter-rater reliability of the Australian Spasticity Assessment Scale in poststroke spasticity. Int J Rehabil Res 2022; 45:86-92. [PMID: 35044994 DOI: 10.1097/mrr.0000000000000516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the inter-rater reliability of the Australian Spasticity Assessment Scale (ASAS) in adult stroke patients with spasticity, two experienced clinicians rated the elbow flexor, wrist flexor, and ankle plantar flexor spasticity by using the ASAS in 85 persons with stroke. Unweighted and weighted (linear and quadratic) kappa statistics were used to calculate the inter-rater reliability for each muscle group. Unweighted kappa coefficients for elbow flexors (n = 83), wrist flexors (n = 80), and ankle plantar flexors (n = 77) were 0.67, 0.60, and 0.55, respectively. Linear and quadratic weighted kappa coefficients, respectively, were 0.77 and 0.87 for elbow flexors, 0.72 and 0.82 for wrist flexors, and 0.72 and 0.85 for ankle plantar flexors. The raters never disagreed by more than a single score in the rating of elbow flexors. On the contrary, the raters disagreed by more than a single score in three patients in the rating of ankle plantar flexors and in one patient in the rating of wrist flexors. The results suggested that inter-rater reliability of the ASAS differed according to the spastic muscle group assessed and the statistical method used. The strength of the agreement on the ASAS, an ordinal scale, ranged from good to very good when the weighted kappa values were considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Korhan Bariş Bayram
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, İzmir Kâtip Çelebi University, Atatürk Training and Research Hospital
| | - İlker Şengül
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, İzmir Kâtip Çelebi University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Ayhan Aşkin
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, İzmir Kâtip Çelebi University, İzmir, Turkey
| | - Aliye Tosun
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, İzmir Kâtip Çelebi University, İzmir, Turkey
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Rao S, Huang M, Chung SG, Zhang LQ. Effect of Stretching of Spastic Elbow Under Intelligent Control in Chronic Stroke Survivors-A Pilot Study. Front Neurol 2022; 12:742260. [PMID: 34970204 PMCID: PMC8713334 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.742260] [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: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To assess the short-term effects of strenuous dynamic stretching of the elbow joint using an intelligent stretching device in chronic spastic stroke survivors. Methods: The intelligent stretching device was utilized to provide a single session of intensive stretching to the spastic elbow joint in the sagittal plane (i.e., elbow flexion and extension). The stretching was provided to the extreme range, safely, with control of the stretching velocity and torque to increase the joint range of motion (ROM) and reduce spasticity and joint stiffness. Eight chronic stroke survivors (age: 52.6 ± 8.2 years, post-stroke duration: 9.5 ± 3.6 years) completed a single 40-min stretching intervention session. Elbow passive and active ROM, strength, passive stiffness (quantifying the non-reflex component of spasticity), and instrumented tendon reflex test of the biceps tendon (quantifying the reflex component of the spasticity) were measured before and after stretching. Results: After stretching, there was a significant increase in passive ROM of elbow flexion (p = 0.021, r = 0.59) and extension (p = 0.026, r = 0.59). Also, elbow active ROM and the spastic elbow flexors showed a trend of increase in their strength. Conclusion: The intelligent stretching had a short-term positive influence on the passive movement ROM. Hence, intelligent stretching can potentially be used to repeatedly and regularly stretch spastic elbow joints, which subsequently helps to reduce upper limb impairments post-stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjana Rao
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Meizhen Huang
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Sun Gun Chung
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Li-Qun Zhang
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Orthopaedics, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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Zhang C, Huang MZ, Kehs GJ, Braun RG, Cole JW, Zhang LQ. Intensive In-Bed Sensorimotor Rehabilitation of Early Subacute Stroke Survivors With Severe Hemiplegia Using a Wearable Robot. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2021; 29:2252-2259. [PMID: 34665733 PMCID: PMC8843010 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2021.3121204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Rehabilitation for stroke survivors with severe motor impairment remains challenging. Early motor rehabilitation is critical for improving mobility function post stroke, but it is often delayed due to limited resources in clinical practice. The objectives of this study were to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of early in-bed sensorimotor rehabilitation on acute stroke survivors with severe hemiplegia using a wearable ankle robot. Eighteen patients (9 in the study group and 9 in the control group) with severe hemiplegia and no active ankle movement were enrolled in acute/subacute phase post stroke. During a typical 3-week hospital stay, patients in the study group received ankle robot-guided in-bed training (50 minutes/session, 5 sessions/week), including motor relearning under real-time visual feedback of re-emerging motor output, strong passive stretching under intelligent control, and game-based active movement training with robotic assistance. Whereas the control group received passive ankle movement in the mid-range of motion and attempted active ankle movement without robotic assistance. After multi-session training, the study group achieved significantly greater improvements in Fugl-Meyer Lower Extremity motor score (p = 0.007), plantarflexor strength (p = 0.009), and active range of motion (p = 0.011) than controls. The study group showed earlier motor recovery for plantarflexion and dorsiflexion than the control group (p < 0.05). This study showed that in-bed sensorimotor rehabilitation guided by a wearable ankle robot through combining motor relearning in real-time feedback, strong passive stretching, and active movement training facilitated early motor recovery for stroke survivors with severe hemiplegia in the acute/subacute phase.
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Zhai X, Wu Q, Li X, Xu Q, Zhang Y, Fan S, Zhang LQ, Pan Y. Effects of Robot-Aided Rehabilitation on the Ankle Joint Properties and Balance Function in Stroke Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Neurol 2021; 12:719305. [PMID: 34721259 PMCID: PMC8549728 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.719305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Stroke survivors with impaired control of the ankle due to stiff plantarflexors often experience abnormal posture control, which affects balance and locomotion. Forceful stretching may decrease ankle stiffness and improve balance. Recently, a robot-aided stretching device was developed to decrease ankle stiffness of patient post-stroke, however, their benefits compared to manual stretching exercises have not been done in a randomized controlled trial, and the correlations between the ankle joint biomechanical properties and balance are unclear. Objective: To compare the effects of robot-aided to manual ankle stretching training in stroke survivors with the spastic ankle on the ankle joint properties and balance function post-stroke, and further explore the correlations between the ankle stiffness and balance. Methods: Twenty inpatients post-stroke with ankle spasticity received 20 minutes of stretching training daily over two weeks. The experimental group used a robot-aided stretching device, and the control group received manual stretching. Outcome measures were evaluated before and after training. The primary outcome measure was ankle stiffness. The secondary outcome measures were passive dorsiflexion ranges of motion, dorsiflexor muscle strength, Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Fugl-Meyer Motor Assessment of Lower Extremity (FMA-LE), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), and the Pro-Kin balance test. Results: After training, two groups showed significantly within-group improvements in dorsiflexor muscle strength, FMA-LE, BBS, MBI (P < 0.05). The between-group comparison showed no significant differences in all outcome measures (P > 0.0025). The experimental group significantly improved in the stiffness and passive range of motion of dorsiflexion, MAS. In the Pro-Kin test, the experimental group improved significantly with eyes closed and open (P < 0.05), but significant improvements were found in the control group only with eyes open (P < 0.05). Dorsiflexion stiffness was positively correlated with the Pro-Kin test results with eyes open and the MAS (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The robot-aided and manual ankle stretching training provided similar significant improvements in the ankle properties and balance post-stroke. However, only the robot-aided stretching training improved spasticity and stiffness of dorsiflexion significantly. Ankle dorsiflexion stiffness was correlated with balance function. Clinical Trial Registration:www.chictr.org.cn ChiCTR2000030108.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxue Zhai
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiong Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Li
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Quan Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yanlin Zhang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Senchao Fan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Li-Qun Zhang
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Yu Pan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, Beijing, China.,School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
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Gomez-Cuaresma L, Lucena-Anton D, Gonzalez-Medina G, Martin-Vega FJ, Galan-Mercant A, Luque-Moreno C. Effectiveness of Stretching in Post-Stroke Spasticity and Range of Motion: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11111074. [PMID: 34834426 PMCID: PMC8619362 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11111074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Spasticity is one of the most frequent and disabling clinical manifestations of patients with stroke. In clinical practice, stretching is the most widely used physiotherapeutic intervention for this population. However, there is no solid evidence for its effectiveness. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of different types of stretching in reducing post-stroke spasticity. Research was carried out until March 2021 in the following scientific databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and PEDro. The PEDro scale and the Cochrane collaboration tool were used to assess the methodological quality and risk of bias of the studies. Eight articles were selected for qualitative analysis; six of them contributed information to the meta-analysis. No conclusive evidence was obtained on the effectiveness of stretching in terms of treating spasticity and range of motion in patients with stroke. Further research is necessary in order to determine the effectiveness of the use of stretching in this population, considering the different types of stretching (static and dynamic), the time of application, the measurement of the different components of spasticity, and the extrapolation of functional results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Gomez-Cuaresma
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain; (L.G.-C.); (G.G.-M.); (F.J.M.-V.); (A.G.-M.); (C.L.-M.)
| | - David Lucena-Anton
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain; (L.G.-C.); (G.G.-M.); (F.J.M.-V.); (A.G.-M.); (C.L.-M.)
- Intell-SOK (TIC-256) Research Group, Department of Informatics Engineering, University of Cádiz, 11519 Cádiz, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-635695203
| | - Gloria Gonzalez-Medina
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain; (L.G.-C.); (G.G.-M.); (F.J.M.-V.); (A.G.-M.); (C.L.-M.)
- Investigation Group CTS-986, Physical Therapy and Health (FISA), University Institute of Research in Social Sustainable Development (INDESS), University of Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Martin-Vega
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain; (L.G.-C.); (G.G.-M.); (F.J.M.-V.); (A.G.-M.); (C.L.-M.)
| | - Alejandro Galan-Mercant
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain; (L.G.-C.); (G.G.-M.); (F.J.M.-V.); (A.G.-M.); (C.L.-M.)
- MOVE-IT Research Group, Department of Physical Education, Faculty of Education, Sciences University of Cádiz, 11002 Cádiz, Spain
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, University of Cádiz, 11002 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Carlos Luque-Moreno
- Department of Nursing and Physiotherapy, University of Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain; (L.G.-C.); (G.G.-M.); (F.J.M.-V.); (A.G.-M.); (C.L.-M.)
- Department of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, University of Seville, 41009 Seville, Spain
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Gonzalez A, Garcia L, Kilby J, McNair P. Robotic devices for paediatric rehabilitation: a review of design features. Biomed Eng Online 2021; 20:89. [PMID: 34488777 PMCID: PMC8420060 DOI: 10.1186/s12938-021-00920-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Children with physical disabilities often have limited performance in daily activities, hindering their physical development, social development and mental health. Therefore, rehabilitation is essential to mitigate the adverse effects of the different causes of physical disabilities and improve independence and quality of life. In the last decade, robotic rehabilitation has shown the potential to augment traditional physical rehabilitation. However, to date, most robotic rehabilitation devices are designed for adult patients who differ in their needs compared to paediatric patients, limiting the devices' potential because the paediatric patients' needs are not adequately considered. With this in mind, the current work reviews the existing literature on robotic rehabilitation for children with physical disabilities, intending to summarise how the rehabilitation robots could fulfil children's needs and inspire researchers to develop new devices. A literature search was conducted utilising the Web of Science, PubMed and Scopus databases. Based on the inclusion-exclusion criteria, 206 publications were included, and 58 robotic devices used by children with a physical disability were identified. Different design factors and the treated conditions using robotic technology were compared. Through the analyses, it was identified that weight, safety, operability and motivation were crucial factors to the successful design of devices for children. The majority of the current devices were used for lower limb rehabilitation. Neurological disorders, in particular cerebral palsy, were the most common conditions for which devices were designed. By far, the most common actuator was the electric motor. Usually, the devices present more than one training strategy being the assistive strategy the most used. The admittance/impedance method is the most popular to interface the robot with the children. Currently, there is a trend on developing exoskeletons, as they can assist children with daily life activities outside of the rehabilitation setting, propitiating a wider adoption of the technology. With this shift in focus, it appears likely that new technologies to actuate the system (e.g. serial elastic actuators) and to detect the intention (e.g. physiological signals) of children as they go about their daily activities will be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Gonzalez
- BioDesign Lab, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lorenzo Garcia
- BioDesign Lab, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Jeff Kilby
- BioDesign Lab, School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter McNair
- Health and Rehabilitation Research Institute, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
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15
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Li J, Fan W, Dong M, Rong X. Research on control strategies for ankle rehabilitation using parallel mechanism. COGNITIVE COMPUTATION AND SYSTEMS 2020. [DOI: 10.1049/ccs.2020.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jianfeng Li
- College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics TechnologyBeijing University of TechnologyBeijing100124People's Republic of China
| | - Wenpei Fan
- College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics TechnologyBeijing University of TechnologyBeijing100124People's Republic of China
| | - Mingjie Dong
- College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics TechnologyBeijing University of TechnologyBeijing100124People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Rong
- Department of NeurologyAffiliated Hospital of Qingdao UniversityQingdao266000People's Republic of China
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16
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Yoo D, Kim DH, Seo KH, Lee BC. The Effects of Technology-Assisted Ankle Rehabilitation on Balance Control in Stroke Survivors. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2019; 27:1817-1823. [DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2019.2934930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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17
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Lee SJ, Jin D, Kang SH, Gaebler-Spira D, Zhang LQ. Combined Ankle/Knee Stretching and Pivoting Stepping Training for Children With Cerebral Palsy. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2019; 27:1743-1752. [PMID: 31403432 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2019.2934139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Although various treatment methods have been investigated to reduce spasticity and intoeing gait in children with cerebral palsy (CP), methods to concurrently reduce an intoeing gait and associated ankle/knee stiffness and spasticity according to a child's specific needs are lacking. This study aimed to develop a training program to improve walking function and transverse-plane (pivoting) neuromuscular control and reduce spasticity and intoeing gait deviations. Eight children with diplegic CP and intoeing gait participated in this 6-week combined robotic ankle and/or knee intelligent stretching and pivoting neuromuscular control training program (Subject-specific Stretching and Pivoting Off-axis Neuromuscular control Training, [SS-POINT]). The effects of SS-POINT were evaluated using neuromechanical, functional, and clinical outcome measures and compared to those for eight children with CP and intoeing gait who participated in pivoting neuromuscular control training (POINT) alone in a previous study. RESULTS After the SS-POINT program, subjects with CP showed reduced knee stiffness and intoeing angle, and improvements in both joint and leg functions in terms of ankle and knee active range of motion, ankle dorsiflexor strength, proprioception, walking speed, balance, and minimum pivoting angle. Furthermore, improvements in proprioceptive acuity and minimum pivoting angle after the SS-POINT were greater than those after the POINT. CONCLUSION The SS-POINT approach can be used as a subject-specific training program for improving leg and walking functions and reducing intoeing during gait. SIGNIFICANCE This approach can serve as an individualized intervention at the joint and walking levels to maximize intervention effects by adjusting training targets, sequences, and intensities to meet the individual needs of children with CP.
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Shiraishi R, Kawamoto H, Sankai Y. Development of a Clonus Management System: A Case Study of Sit-To-Stand Learning in a Stroke Patient. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2018; 2018:5958-5961. [PMID: 30441693 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2018.8513675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This paper proposes a new clonus management system that integrates sit-to-stand (STS) learning with informatics and physical methods. Clonus is an involuntary muscle spasm, which often interferes with motor learning or the training of chronic patients. A conventional ankle-foot orthosis makes it difficult for patients to control the onset of clonus or to improve it. A new system with an original orthosis can reduce the occurrence of clonus by the physical constraint of the ankle by firmly placing the heel of the affected side on the ground. This system also provides a ground reaction force of the heel because clonus hardly occurs when the heel is placed on the ground. The system supports STS movement by linearly moving the seat up and down when users place the heel of the affected side on the ground. Using this system, users can learn how to perform the STS movement while managing their clonus. Testing its effect on a stroke patient confirmed that the system relieves the onset of clonus and reduces the frequency with which clonus occurs during STS learning. In addition, the results of continuous learning showed that the patient could perform the STS movement without the occurrence of clonus even without using the developed orthosis. Here we discuss the results from the viewpoints of human-machine interaction and the relationship between nervous and peripheral systems. The proposed clonus management system may promote the improvement of chronic patients with clonus.
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Wu YN, Park HS, Chen JJ, Ren Y, Roth EJ, Zhang LQ. Position as Well as Velocity Dependence of Spasticity-Four-Dimensional Characterizations of Catch Angle. Front Neurol 2018; 9:863. [PMID: 30416478 PMCID: PMC6212511 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated the muscle alterations related to spasticity in stroke quantitatively using a portable manual spasticity evaluator. Methods: Quantitative neuro-mechanical evaluations under controlled passive elbow stretches in stroke survivors and healthy controls were performed in a research laboratory of a rehabilitation hospital. Twelve stroke survivors and nine healthy controls participated in the study. Spasticity and catch angle were evaluated at 90°/s and 270°/s with the velocities controlled through real-time audiovisual feedback. The elbow range of motion (ROM), stiffness, and energy loss were determined at a slow velocity of 30°/s. Four-dimensional measures including joint position, torque, velocity and torque change rate were analyzed jointly to determine the catch angle. Results: The catch angle was dependent on the stretch velocity and occurred significantly later with increasing velocity (p < 0.001), indicating position dependence of spasticity. The higher resistance felt by the examiner at the higher velocity was also due to more extreme joint position (joint angle) since the spastic joint was moved significantly further to a stiffer elbow position with the higher velocity. Stroke survivors showed smaller ROM (p < 0.001), higher stiffness (p < 0.001), and larger energy loss (p = 0.005). Compared to the controls, stroke survivors showed increased reflex excitability with higher reflex-mediated torque (p < 0.001) and at higher velocities (p = 0.02). Conclusion: Velocity dependence of spasticity is partially due to joint angle position dependence with the joint moved further (to a stiffer position where higher resistance was felt) at a higher velocity. The “4-dimensional characterization” including the joint angle, velocity, torque, and torque change rate provides a systematic tool to characterize catch angle and spasticity quantitatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ning Wu
- Department of Physical Therapy and Kinesiology, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, MA, United States
| | - Hyung-Soon Park
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Jia-Jin Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yupeng Ren
- Rehabtek LLC, Glenview, IL, United States
| | - Elliot J Roth
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Li-Qun Zhang
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, Department of Orthopaedics, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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Yoo D, Son Y, Kim DH, Seo KH, Lee BC. Technology-Assisted Ankle Rehabilitation Improves Balance and Gait Performance in Stroke Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Study With 1-Month Follow-Up. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2018; 26:2315-2323. [PMID: 30418882 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2018.2879783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Many stroke survivors have limited ankle range of motion (ROM) caused by weak dorsiflexors and stiff plantarflexors. Passive ankle stretching exercises with physical therapists or a stretching board are usually recommended, but these treatments have some limitations (e.g., cost and availability of physical therapists). In this paper, we assessed the results of ankle stretching exercises delivered by a robotic ankle stretching system called motorized ankle stretcher (MAS) that we developed or by a stretching board on ankle ROM, balance control, and gait performance. The 16 stroke survivors were randomly assigned to an intervention group (IG) or a control group (CG) and participated in seven sessions of dorsiflexion stretching exercises for three-and-a-half consecutive weeks. Laboratory assessments included pre-assessment (baseline at the beginning of the first exercise session), post-assessment (at the end of the seventh exercise session), and retention assessment (one month after the seventh exercise session). All assessments included ankle ROM for the affected side, static/dynamic balance control with a sensory organization test (SOT), walking speed, walking cadence, and step length for the affected and unaffected sides. During seven sessions of ankle stretching exercises, the IG performed them using the MAS, and the CG used a stretching board. The IG significantly improved ankle ROM, SOT scores (i.e., static/dynamic balance control), walking speeds, walking cadences, and step lengths for the unaffected side after completing the seven exercise sessions of ankle stretching exercises and maintained the enhancements at the retention assessment. The CG did not significantly improve across the majority of outcome measures except for the SOT scores between the pre-assessment and retention assessment. Future work will investigate the ideal intensity, frequency, and duration of exercising with the MAS. Our research on technology-assisted ankle rehabilitation, which can ascertain the level of persistent improvement, long-term performance retention, and carry-over effects in stroke survivors, can be used to inform future designs.
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Ochi A, Fukumoto M, Takami R, Ohko H, Hayashi T, Yamada K. Effect of ankle stretching combined with arm cycling on the improvement of calf muscle stiffness in patients with stroke: a pilot study. J Phys Ther Sci 2018; 30:1305-1309. [PMID: 30349169 PMCID: PMC6181649 DOI: 10.1589/jpts.30.1305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
[Purpose] This study aimed to ascertain whether ankle stretching combined with arm cycling compared with that without arm cycling results in greater improvement in maximum dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM), calf muscle stiffness, and gait velocity in the affected limb of patients with stroke. [Participants and Methods] Random ABAB reversal design was used in this study involving nine patients with stroke. Participants performed 10 min of ankle plantar flexor stretching through weight bearing using the tilt table under the following 2 conditions: with or without arm cycling at 60 revolutions per minute. Pre- and post-stretching maximum ROM and passive plantar flexion torque were measured using a custom-made passive torque indicator. Stiffness was calculated based on passive torque-angle relationships. [Results] Maximum ROM and stiffness significantly improved after stretching in both conditions, whereas no changes in gait velocity were found. The difference in pre- and post-stretching stiffness was significantly greater in the stretching with arm cycling group. Change in maximum ROM showed no difference between both stretching conditions. [Conclusion] This study indicates that ankle plantar flexor stretching combined with arm cycling was more effective than that without cycling in improving calf muscle stiffness in the affected limb of patients with stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akira Ochi
- Division of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Care and Rehabilitation, Seijoh University: 2-172 Fukinodai, Toukai-City, Aichi 476-8588, Japan.,Department of Rehabilitation, Yamada Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Ryosuke Takami
- Department of Rehabilitation, Geriatric Health Services Facility, Terada Garden, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ohko
- Division of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Care and Rehabilitation, Seijoh University: 2-172 Fukinodai, Toukai-City, Aichi 476-8588, Japan
| | - Takahiro Hayashi
- Division of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Care and Rehabilitation, Seijoh University: 2-172 Fukinodai, Toukai-City, Aichi 476-8588, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Yamada
- Division of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Care and Rehabilitation, Seijoh University: 2-172 Fukinodai, Toukai-City, Aichi 476-8588, Japan.,Department of Rehabilitation, Yamada Hospital, Japan
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Zhang M, Cao J, Xie SQ, Zhu G, Zeng X, Huang X, Xu Q. A Preliminary Study on Robot-Assisted Ankle Rehabilitation for the Treatment of Drop Foot. J INTELL ROBOT SYST 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10846-017-0652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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23
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Effectiveness of robo-assisted lower limb rehabilitation for spastic patients: A systematic review. Biosens Bioelectron 2018; 117:403-415. [PMID: 29960851 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2018.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 06/10/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Though many rehabilitative treatments are available for treatment of spasticity, thus the effectiveness of different robo-rehabilitative devices needs to be evaluated through a systematic review. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to focuses on the efficacy of Robot assistive rehabilitation device for the removal of spasticity from the lower limb of Spastic patients. DATA SOURCESSOURCES PubMed, Web of Sciences, EMBASE (Excerpta Medical database), CDSR (Cochrane database of systematic reviews), Scopus, IEEE Xplore, Wiley online library, MEDLINE (OvidSP), Science Direct, Springer Link were from January 1980 to September 2017 DATA EXTRACTIONEXTRACTION: Seventy-one publications from eleven databases published were selected using keywords Ankle foot, spasticity, robotic rehabilitation, efficacy of robotics and Ankle foot rehabilitation. The review is narrowed down to twenty-six articles which were selected for they focused on effects of Robot assistive rehabilitation device quantitatively. RESULT A quantitative study from analyzing 26 studies comprising of 786 subjects is carried out. The major outcome of the effectiveness of the robot assistive therapy for the movement of ankle and functioning of gait is deduced. As the used protocols and treatment procedures vary, made comparative study complex or impracticable. CONCLUSION Robo-rehabilitation possesses an ability to provide unified therapy protocols with greater ease in comparison to conventional therapies. They continuously prove to be irreplaceable assistant devices when it comes to providing excellent treatment in terms of improvement from this study. Though many mechatronic devices are available but the devices for treatment of early stage rehabilitation of stroke patients is very limited.
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Towards Optimal Platform-Based Robot Design for Ankle Rehabilitation: The State of the Art and Future Prospects. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2018; 2018:1534247. [PMID: 29736230 PMCID: PMC5875048 DOI: 10.1155/2018/1534247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This review aims to compare existing robot-assisted ankle rehabilitation techniques in terms of robot design. Included studies mainly consist of selected papers in two published reviews involving a variety of robot-assisted ankle rehabilitation techniques. A free search was also made in Google Scholar and Scopus by using keywords “ankle∗,” and “robot∗,” and (“rehabilitat∗” or “treat∗”). The search is limited to English-language articles published between January 1980 and September 2016. Results show that existing robot-assisted ankle rehabilitation techniques can be classified into wearable exoskeleton and platform-based devices. Platform-based devices are mostly developed for the treatment of a variety of ankle musculoskeletal and neurological injuries, while wearable ones focus more on ankle-related gait training. In terms of robot design, comparative analysis indicates that an ideal ankle rehabilitation robot should have aligned rotation center as the ankle joint, appropriate workspace, and actuation torque, no matter how many degrees of freedom (DOFs) it has. Single-DOF ankle robots are mostly developed for specific applications, while multi-DOF devices are more suitable for comprehensive ankle rehabilitation exercises. Other factors including posture adjustability and sensing functions should also be considered to promote related clinical applications. An ankle rehabilitation robot with reconfigurability to maximize its functions will be a new research point towards optimal design, especially on parallel mechanisms.
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Reviewing Clinical Effectiveness of Active Training Strategies of Platform-Based Ankle Rehabilitation Robots. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2018; 2018:2858294. [PMID: 29675142 PMCID: PMC5838480 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2858294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective This review aims to provide a systematical investigation of clinical effectiveness of active training strategies applied in platform-based ankle robots. Method English-language studies published from Jan 1980 to Aug 2017 were searched from four databases using key words of "Ankle∗" AND "Robot∗" AND "Effect∗ OR Improv∗ OR Increas∗." Following an initial screening, three rounds of discrimination were successively conducted based on the title, the abstract, and the full paper. Result A total of 21 studies were selected with 311 patients involved; of them, 13 studies applied a single group while another eight studies used different groups for comparison to verify the therapeutic effect. Virtual-reality (VR) game training was applied in 19 studies, while two studies used proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) training. Conclusion Active training techniques delivered by platform ankle rehabilitation robots have been demonstrated with great potential for clinical applications. Training strategies are mostly combined with one another by considering rehabilitation schemes and motion ability of ankle joints. VR game environment has been commonly used with active ankle training. Bioelectrical signals integrated with VR game training can implement intelligent identification of movement intention and assessment. These further provide the foundation for advanced interactive training strategies that can lead to enhanced training safety and confidence for patients and better treatment efficacy.
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27
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A Feasibility Study of SSVEP-Based Passive Training on an Ankle Rehabilitation Robot. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2017; 2017:6819056. [PMID: 29075429 PMCID: PMC5623787 DOI: 10.1155/2017/6819056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study aims to establish a steady-state visual evoked potential- (SSVEP-) based passive training protocol on an ankle rehabilitation robot and validate its feasibility. Method This paper combines SSVEP signals and the virtual reality circumstance through constructing information transmission loops between brains and ankle robots. The robot can judge motion intentions of subjects and trigger the training when subjects pay their attention on one of the four flickering circles. The virtual reality training circumstance provides real-time visual feedback of ankle rotation. Result All five subjects succeeded in conducting ankle training based on the SSVEP-triggered training strategy following their motion intentions. The lowest success rate is 80%, and the highest one is 100%. The lowest information transfer rate (ITR) is 11.5 bits/min when the biggest one of the robots for this proposed training is set as 24 bits/min. Conclusion The proposed training strategy is feasible and promising to be combined with a robot for ankle rehabilitation. Future work will focus on adopting more advanced data process techniques to improve the reliability of intention detection and investigating how patients respond to such a training strategy.
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Ren Y, Wu YN, Yang CY, Xu T, Harvey RL, Zhang LQ. Developing a Wearable Ankle Rehabilitation Robotic Device for in-Bed Acute Stroke Rehabilitation. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2017; 25:589-596. [DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2016.2584003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Zhang LQ, Son J, Park HS, Kang SH, Lee Y, Ren Y. Changes of Shoulder, Elbow, and Wrist Stiffness Matrix Post Stroke. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2017; 25:844-851. [PMID: 28541901 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2017.2707238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Stroke affects multiple joints in the arm with stereotypical patterns of arm deformity involving the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand and with disrupted coordination of multiple joints in active movements. However, there is a lack of systematic methods to evaluate multi-joints and multi-degree of freedoms (DOF) neuro-mechanical changes, especially for complex systems with three or more joints/DOFs involved. This paper used a novel systematic method to characterize dynamics and control of the shoulder, elbow, and wrist of the human arm individually and simultaneously, including the couplings across the multiple joints during controlled movements. A novel method was developed to decompose the complex system into manageable single-joint level for more reliable characterizations. The method was used in clinical studies to characterize the multi-joint changes associated with spastic impaired arm of 11 patients post stroke and 12 healthy controls. It was found that stroke survivors showed not only increased stiffness at the individual joints locally but also significantly higher couplings across the joints. The relative increases in couplings are often higher than that of the local joint stiffness. The multi-joint characterization provided a tool to characterize impairment of individual patients, which would allow more focused impairment-specific treatment. In general, the decomposition method can be used for even more complex systems, making characterization of intractable system dynamics of three or more joints/DOFs manageable.
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Tamburella F, Moreno JC, Iosa M, Pisotta I, Cincotti F, Mattia D, Pons JL, Molinari M. Boosting the traditional physiotherapist approach for stroke spasticity using a sensorized ankle foot orthosis: a pilot study. Top Stroke Rehabil 2017; 24:447-456. [PMID: 28460597 DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2017.1318340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spasticity is a motor disorder that is commonly treated manually by a physical therapist (PhT) stretching the muscles. Recent data on learning have demonstrated the importance of human-to-human interaction in improving rehabilitation: cooperative motor behavior engages specific areas of the motor system compared with execution of a task alone. OBJECTIVES We hypothesize that PhT-guided therapy that involves active collaboration with the patient (Pt) through shared biomechanical visual biofeedback (vBFB) positively impacts learning and performance by the Pt during ankle spasticity treatment. A sensorized ankle foot orthosis (AFO) was developed to provide online quantitative data of joint range of motion (ROM), angular velocity, and electromyographic activity to the PhT and Pt during the treatment of ankle spasticity. METHODS Randomized controlled clinical trial. Ten subacute stroke inpatients, randomized into experimental (EXP) and control (CTRL) groups, underwent six weeks of daily treatment. The EXP group was treated with an active AFO, and the CTRL group was given an inactive AFO. Spasticity, ankle ROM, ankle active and passive joint speed, and coactivation index (CI) were assessed at enrollment and after 15-30 sessions. RESULTS Spasticity and CI (p < 0.005) decreased significantly after training only in the EXP group, in association with a significant rise in active joint speed and active ROM (p < 0.05). Improvements in spasticity (p < 0.05), active joint speed (p < 0.001), and CI (p < 0.001) after treatment differed between the EXP and CTRL groups. CONCLUSIONS PhT-Pt sharing of exercise information, provided by joint sensorization and vBFB, improved the efficacy of the conventional approach for treating ankle spasticity in subacute stroke Pts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Tamburella
- a SPInal REhabilitation Lab and Laboratory (SPIRE Lab.), Neurorehabilitation1 - Spinal Center , IRCCS S. Lucia Foundation , Rome , Italy.,b Laboratory of Robotics Applied to Neurological Rehabilitation, (NeuroRobot Lab.), Neurorehabilitation1 - Spinal Center , IRCCS S. Lucia Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Juan C Moreno
- c Spanish National Research Council, Cajal Institute, Neural Rehabilitation Group , Madrid , Spain
| | - Marco Iosa
- d Clinical Laboratory of Experimental Neurorehabilitation , IRCCS S. Lucia Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Iolanda Pisotta
- b Laboratory of Robotics Applied to Neurological Rehabilitation, (NeuroRobot Lab.), Neurorehabilitation1 - Spinal Center , IRCCS S. Lucia Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Febo Cincotti
- e Department of Computer, Control and Management Engineering , Sapienza University of Rome , Rome , Italy.,f Neuroelectrical Imaging and BCI Lab , IRCCS S. Lucia Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - Donatella Mattia
- f Neuroelectrical Imaging and BCI Lab , IRCCS S. Lucia Foundation , Rome , Italy
| | - José L Pons
- c Spanish National Research Council, Cajal Institute, Neural Rehabilitation Group , Madrid , Spain
| | - Marco Molinari
- b Laboratory of Robotics Applied to Neurological Rehabilitation, (NeuroRobot Lab.), Neurorehabilitation1 - Spinal Center , IRCCS S. Lucia Foundation , Rome , Italy
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Nomura K, Yonezawa T, Mizoguchi H, Takemura H. Measurement of the passive stiffness of ankle joint in 3 DOF using stewart platform type ankle foot device. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2017; 2016:5011-5014. [PMID: 28269394 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2016.7591853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a method to measure the passive stiffness of an ankle joint in three degrees of freedom (DOF) under two motion speeds (1 Hz and 5 degree/s) using a developed Stewart platform-type device. The developed device can reproduce input motions of the foot in 6 DOF by controlling six pneumatic linear motion actuators. We used the device to measure the passive stiffness of an ankle joint undergoing three kinds of motion, namely dorsi-plantar flexion, inversion-eversion, and adduction-abduction. The measured values of the passive stiffness of the ankle joint in dorsiflexion that we obtained agreed well with that obtained in a previous study, indicating that the developed device is useful for measuring the passive stiffness of ankle joint. In addition, the developed device can be used to measure the stiffness in inversion-eversion and adduction-abduction motions as well, parameters that have never been measured. The results we obtained demonstrated certain interesting features as we varied both the direction and pace of motion (e.g., there were significant differences in the stiffness not only between adduction and abduction during the faster pace, but also between these and the other motions).
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Zhou Z, Sun Y, Wang N, Gao F, Wei K, Wang Q. Robot-Assisted Rehabilitation of Ankle Plantar Flexors Spasticity: A 3-Month Study with Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation. Front Neurorobot 2016; 10:16. [PMID: 27895574 PMCID: PMC5107874 DOI: 10.3389/fnbot.2016.00016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, we aim to investigate the effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF)-based rehabilitation for ankle plantar flexors spasticity by using a Robotic Ankle-foot Rehabilitation System (RARS). A modified robot-assisted system was proposed, and seven poststroke patients with hemiplegic spastic ankles participated in a 3-month robotic PNF training. Their impaired sides were used as the experimental group, while their unimpaired sides as the control group. A robotic intervention for the experimental group started from a 2-min passive stretching to warming-up or relaxing the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles and also ended with the same one. Then a PNF training session including 30 trials was activated between them. The rehabilitation trainings were carried out three times a week as an addition to their regular rehabilitation exercise. Passive range of motion, resistance torque, and stiffness were measured in both ankles before and after the interventions. The changes in Achilles tendon length, walking speed, and lower limb function were also evaluated by the same physician or physiotherapist for each participant. Biomechanical measurements before interventions showed significant difference between the experimental group and the control group due to ankle spasticity. For the control group, there was no significant difference in the 3 months with no robotic intervention. But for the experimental group, passive dorsiflexion range of motion increased (p < 0.01), resistance torque under different dorsiflexion angle levels (0°, 10°, and 20°) decreased (p < 0.05, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively), and quasi-static stiffness under different dorsiflexion angle levels (0°, 10°, and 20°) also decreased (p < 0.01, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Achilles's tendon length shortened (p < 0.01), while its thickness showed no significant change (p > 0.05). The robotic rehabilitation also improved the muscle strength (p < 0.01) and muscle control performance (p < 0.001). In addition, improvements were observed in clinical and functional measurements, such as Timed Up-and-Go (p < 0.05), normal walking speed (p > 0.05), and fast walking speed (p < 0.05). These results indicated that the PNF-based robotic intervention could significantly alleviate lower limb spasticity and improve the motor function in chronic stroke participant. The robotic system could potentially be used as an effective tool in poststroke rehabilitation training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihao Zhou
- The Robotics Research Group, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China; Beijing Innovation Center for Engineering Science and Advanced Technology (BIC-ESAT), Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yao Sun
- Rehabilitation Neuroscience Laboratory, University of Victoria , Victoria, BC , Canada
| | - Ninghua Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, First Hospital, Peking University , Beijing , China
| | - Fan Gao
- Department of Health Care Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center , Dallas, TX , USA
| | - Kunlin Wei
- Motor Control Laboratory, Department of Psychology, Peking University , Beijing , China
| | - Qining Wang
- The Robotics Research Group, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China; Beijing Innovation Center for Engineering Science and Advanced Technology (BIC-ESAT), Peking University, Beijing, China
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Maggioni S, Melendez-Calderon A, van Asseldonk E, Klamroth-Marganska V, Lünenburger L, Riener R, van der Kooij H. Robot-aided assessment of lower extremity functions: a review. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2016; 13:72. [PMID: 27485106 PMCID: PMC4969661 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-016-0180-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The assessment of sensorimotor functions is extremely important to understand the health status of a patient and its change over time. Assessments are necessary to plan and adjust the therapy in order to maximize the chances of individual recovery. Nowadays, however, assessments are seldom used in clinical practice due to administrative constraints or to inadequate validity, reliability and responsiveness. In clinical trials, more sensitive and reliable measurement scales could unmask changes in physiological variables that would not be visible with existing clinical scores.In the last decades robotic devices have become available for neurorehabilitation training in clinical centers. Besides training, robotic devices can overcome some of the limitations in traditional clinical assessments by providing more objective, sensitive, reliable and time-efficient measurements. However, it is necessary to understand the clinical needs to be able to develop novel robot-aided assessment methods that can be integrated in clinical practice.This paper aims at providing researchers and developers in the field of robotic neurorehabilitation with a comprehensive review of assessment methods for the lower extremities. Among the ICF domains, we included those related to lower extremities sensorimotor functions and walking; for each chapter we present and discuss existing assessments used in routine clinical practice and contrast those to state-of-the-art instrumented and robot-aided technologies. Based on the shortcomings of current assessments, on the identified clinical needs and on the opportunities offered by robotic devices, we propose future directions for research in rehabilitation robotics. The review and recommendations provided in this paper aim to guide the design of the next generation of robot-aided functional assessments, their validation and their translation to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Maggioni
- Sensory-Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST), ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
- Hocoma AG, Volketswil, Switzerland.
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Alejandro Melendez-Calderon
- Hocoma AG, Volketswil, Switzerland
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Edwin van Asseldonk
- Laboratory of Biomechanical Engineering, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Verena Klamroth-Marganska
- Sensory-Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST), ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Robert Riener
- Sensory-Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS), Department of Health Sciences and Technology (D-HEST), ETH Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, University Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Herman van der Kooij
- Laboratory of Biomechanical Engineering, MIRA Institute for Biomedical Technology and Technical Medicine, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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Rydwik E, Eliasson S, Akner G. The effect of exercise of the affected foot in stroke patients-a randomized controlled pilot trial. Clin Rehabil 2016; 20:645-55. [PMID: 16944822 DOI: 10.1191/0269215506cre986oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the effect of treatment with a portable device called Stimulo on range of motion, muscle strength and spasticity in the ankle joint and its effect on walking ability, balance, activities of daily living (ADL) and health-related quality of life in stroke patients. Design: A randomized controlled pilot study. Setting: A research centre. Subjects: Ambulatory or partly ambulatory chronic stroke patients with remaining spasticity and/or decreased range of motion in the hemiparetic leg/ankle. Interventions: Standardized and individualized programme including active and passive range of motion of the ankle with a portable device (Stimulo), performed three times a week for 30 min, over a six-week period. Main measures: Range of motion, muscle strength, spasticity, gait variables, balance, ADL and health-related quality of life. Results: Eighteen subjects were included in the study with a mean age of 75 years. The compliance rate was 94-99%. There were no significant differences between the groups. Conclusion: The study showed no significant effect of an ankle-exercise intervention programme with Stimulo. Further studies with a larger sample size are of importance before any further conclusions can be drawn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Rydwik
- Nutrition and Pharmacotherapy Unit, Research and Development Unit for the Elderly North West, Karolinska Institute, Jakobsbergs Hospital, Birgittavägen 4, 177 31 Järfälla, Sweden.
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Man HS, Leung AKL, Cheung JTM, Sterzing T. Reliability of metatarsophalangeal and ankle joint torque measurements by an innovative device. Gait Posture 2016; 48:189-193. [PMID: 27289023 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2016.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The toe flexor muscles maintain body balance during standing and provide push-off force during walking, running, and jumping. Additionally, they are important contributing structures to maintain normal foot function. Thus, weakness of these muscles may cause poor balance, inefficient locomotion and foot deformities. The quantification of metatarsophalangeal joint (MPJ) stiffness is valuable as it is considered as a confounding factor in toe flexor muscles function. MPJ and ankle joint stiffness measurement is still largely depended on manual skills as current devices do not have good control on alignment, angular joint speed and displacement during measurement. Therefore, this study introduces an innovative dynamometer and protocol procedures for MPJ and ankle Joint torque measurement with precise and reliable foot alignment, angular joint speed and displacement control. Within-day and between-day test-retest experiments on MPJ and ankle joint torque measurement were conducted on ten and nine healthy male subjects respectively. The mean peak torques of MPJ and ankle joint of between-day and within-day measurement were 1.50±0.38Nm/deg and 1.19±0.34Nm/deg. The corresponding torques of the ankle joint were 8.24±2.20Nm/deg and 7.90±3.18Nm/deg respectively. Intraclass-correlation coefficients (ICC) of averaged peak torque of both joints of between-day and within-day test-retest experiments were ranging from 0.91 to 0.96, indicating the innovative device is systematic and reliable for the measurements and can be used for multiple scientific and clinical purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hok-Sum Man
- Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Aaron Kam-Lun Leung
- Interdisciplinary Division of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China.
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Park K, Chang PH, Kang SH. In Vivo Estimation of Human Forearm and Wrist Dynamic Properties. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2016; 25:436-446. [PMID: 27249835 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2016.2573844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
It is important to estimate the 3 degree-of-freedom (DOF) impedance of human forearm and wrist (i.e., forearm prono-supination, and wrist flexion-extension and radial-ulnar deviation) in motor control and in the diagnosis of altered mechanical resistance following stroke. There is, however, a lack of methods to characterize 3 DOF impedance. Thus, we developed a reliable and accurate impedance estimation method, the distal internal model based impedance control (dIMBIC)-based method, to characterize the 3 DOF impedance, including cross-coupled terms between DOFs, for the first time. Its accuracy and reliability were experimentally validated using a robot with substantial nonlinear joint friction. The 3 DOF human forearm and wrist impedance of eight healthy subjects was reliably characterized, and its linear behavior was verified. Thus, the dIMBIC-based method can provide us with 3 DOF forearm and wrist impedance regardless of nonlinear robot joint friction. It is expected that, with the proposed method, the 3 DOF impedance estimation can promote motor control studies and complement the diagnosis of altered wrist and forearm resistance post-stroke by providing objective impedance estimates, including cross-coupled terms.
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37
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Chen G, Zhou Z, Vanderborght B, Wang N, Wang Q. Proxy-based sliding mode control of a robotic ankle-foot system for post-stroke rehabilitation. Adv Robot 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/01691864.2016.1176601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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KUNG PINCHENG, LIN CHOUCHINGK, CHEN SHUMIN, JU MINGSHAUNG. CONTROL OF FOREARM MODULE IN UPPER-LIMB REHABILITATION ROBOT FOR REDUCTION AND BIOMECHANICAL ASSESSMENT OF PRONATOR HYPERTONIA OF STROKE PATIENTS. J MECH MED BIOL 2016. [DOI: 10.1142/s0219519416500081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Spastic hypertonia causes loss of range of motion (ROM) and contractures in patients with post-stroke hemiparesis. The pronation/supination of the forearm is an essential functional movement in daily activities. We developed a special module for a shoulder-elbow rehabilitation robot for the reduction and biomechanical assessment of pronator/supinator hypertonia of the forearm. The module consisted of a rotational drum driven by an AC servo motor and equipped with an encoder and a custom-made torque sensor. By properly switching the control algorithm between position control and torque control, a hybrid controller able to mimic a therapist’s manual stretching movements was designed. Nine stroke patients were recruited to validate the functions of the module. The results showed that the affected forearms had significant increases in the ROM after five cycles of stretching. Both the passive ROM and the average stiffness were highly correlated to the spasticity of the forearm flexor muscles as measured using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). With the custom-made module and controller, this upper-limb rehabilitation robot may be able to aid physical therapists to reduce hypertonia and quantify biomechanical properties of the muscles for forearm rotation in stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- PIN-CHENG KUNG
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan 701, Taiwan
| | - CHOU-CHING K. LIN
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan 701, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan 701, Taiwan
| | - SHU-MIN CHEN
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan 701, Taiwan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan 701, Taiwan
| | - MING-SHAUNG JU
- Medical Device Innovation Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan 701, Taiwan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan 701, Taiwan
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Sung PS. Kinematic analysis of ankle stiffness in subjects with and without flat foot. Foot (Edinb) 2016; 26:58-63. [PMID: 26897736 DOI: 10.1016/j.foot.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/29/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the magnitude of ankle motion is influenced by joint congruence and ligament elasticity, there is a lack of understanding on ankle stiffness between subjects with and without flat foot. OBJECTIVE This study investigated a quantified ankle stiffness difference between subjects with and without flat foot. METHODS There were forty-five age- and gender-matched subjects who participated in the study. Each subject was seated upright with the tested foot held firmly onto a footplate that was attached to a torque sensor by the joint-driving device. RESULTS The flat foot group (mean ± standard deviation) demonstrated increased stiffness during ankle dorsiflexion (0.37 ± 0.16 for flat foot group, 0.28 ± 0.10 for control group; t=-2.11, p=0.04). However, there was no significant group difference during plantar flexion (0.35 ± 0.15 for flat foot group, 0.33 ± 0.07 for control group; t=0.64, p=0.06). CONCLUSION The results of this study indicated that the flat foot group demonstrated increased ankle stiffness during dorsiflexion regardless of demographic factors. This study highlights the need for kinematic analyses and joint stiffness measures during ankle dorsiflexion in subjects with flat foot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul S Sung
- Department of Physical Therapy, Panuska College of Professional Studies, The University of Scranton, 800 Linden St, Scranton, PA 18510, United States.
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Chen K, Wu YN, Ren Y, Liu L, Gaebler-Spira D, Tankard K, Lee J, Song W, Wang M, Zhang LQ. Home-Based Versus Laboratory-Based Robotic Ankle Training for Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Pilot Randomized Comparative Trial. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2016; 97:1237-43. [PMID: 26903143 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2016.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2015] [Revised: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the outcomes of home-based robot-guided therapy and compare it to laboratory-based robot-guided therapy for the treatment of impaired ankles in children with cerebral palsy. DESIGN A randomized comparative trial design comparing a home-based training group and a laboratory-based training group. SETTING Home versus laboratory within a research hospital. PARTICIPANTS Children (N=41) with cerebral palsy who were at Gross Motor Function Classification System level I, II, or III were randomly assigned to 2 groups. Children in home-based and laboratory-based groups were 8.7±2.8 (n=23) and 10.7±6.0 (n=18) years old, respectively. INTERVENTIONS Six-week combined passive stretching and active movement intervention of impaired ankle in a laboratory or home environment using a portable rehabilitation robot. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Active dorsiflexion range of motion (as the primary outcome), mobility (6-minute walk test and timed Up and Go test), balance (Pediatric Balance Scale), Selective Motor Control Assessment of the Lower Extremity, Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) for spasticity, passive range of motion (PROM), strength, and joint stiffness. RESULTS Significant improvements were found for the home-based group in all biomechanical outcome measures except for PROM and all clinical outcome measures except the MAS. The laboratory-based group also showed significant improvements in all the biomechanical outcome measures and all clinical outcome measures except the MAS. There were no significant differences in the outcome measures between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that the translation of repetitive, goal-directed, biofeedback training through motivating games from the laboratory to the home environment is feasible. The benefits of home-based robot-guided therapy were similar to those of laboratory-based robot-guided therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Chen
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Yi-Ning Wu
- University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts
| | - Yupeng Ren
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Lin Liu
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Xuanwu Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Deborah Gaebler-Spira
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Kelly Tankard
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, Kansas
| | - Julia Lee
- Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | | | - Li-Qun Zhang
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.
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Bartholdy C, Zangger G, Hansen L, Ginnerup-Nielsen E, Bliddal H, Henriksen M. Local and Systemic Changes in Pain Sensitivity After 4 Weeks of Calf Muscle Stretching in a Nonpainful Population: A Randomized Trial. Pain Pract 2015; 16:696-703. [DOI: 10.1111/papr.12322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Bartholdy
- Department of Rheumatology; The Parker Institute; Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Graziella Zangger
- Department of Rheumatology; The Parker Institute; Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Lisbeth Hansen
- Department of Rheumatology; The Parker Institute; Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Elisabeth Ginnerup-Nielsen
- Department of Rheumatology; The Parker Institute; Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Henning Bliddal
- Department of Rheumatology; The Parker Institute; Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Marius Henriksen
- Department of Rheumatology; The Parker Institute; Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg; Copenhagen Denmark
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Chen K, Ren Y, Gaebler-Spira D, Zhang LQ. Home-based tele-assisted robotic rehabilitation of joint impairments in children with cerebral palsy. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2015; 2014:5288-91. [PMID: 25571187 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2014.6944819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
A portable rehabilitation robot incorporating intelligent stretching, robot-guided voluntary movement training with motivating games and tele-rehabilitation was developed to provide convenient and cost-effective rehabilitation to children with cerebral palsy (CP) and extend rehabilitation care beyond hospital. Clinicians interact with the patients remotely for periodic evaluations and updated guidance. The tele-assisted stretching and active movement training was done over 6-week 18 sessions on the impaired ankle of 23 children with CP in their home setting. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated using biomechanical measures and clinical outcome measures. After the tele-assisted home robotic rehabilitation intervention, there were significant increases in the ankle passive and active range of motion, muscle strength, a decrease in spasticity, and increases in balance and selective control assessment of lower-extremity.
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Clinical experimental research on adaptive robot-aided therapy control methods for upper-limb rehabilitation. ROBOTICA 2014. [DOI: 10.1017/s0263574713001264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYThis study presents novel robotic therapy control algorithms for upper-limb rehabilitation, using newly developed passive and progressive resistance therapy modes. A fuzzy-logic based proportional-integral-derivative (PID) position control strategy, integrating a patient's biomechanical feedback into the control loop, is proposed for passive movements. This allows the robot to smoothly stretch the impaired limb through increasingly rigorous training trajectories. A fuzzy adaptive impedance force controller is addressed in the progressive resistance muscle strength training and the adaptive resistive force is generated according to the impaired limb's muscle strength recovery level, characterized by the online estimated impaired limb's bio-damping and bio-stiffness. The proposed methods are verified with a custom constructed therapeutic robot system featuring a Barrett WAM™ compliant manipulator. Twenty-four recruited stroke subjects were randomly allocated in experimental and control groups and enrolled in a 20-week rehabilitation training program. Preliminary results show that the proposed therapy control strategies can not only improve the impaired limb's joint range of motion but also enhance its muscle strength.
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Forrester LW, Roy A, Krywonis A, Kehs G, Krebs HI, Macko RF. Modular ankle robotics training in early subacute stroke: a randomized controlled pilot study. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2014; 28:678-87. [PMID: 24515923 DOI: 10.1177/1545968314521004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED BACKGROUND. Modular lower extremity robotics may offer a valuable avenue for restoring neuromotor control after hemiparetic stroke. Prior studies show that visually guided and visually evoked practice with an ankle robot (anklebot) improves paretic ankle motor control that translates into improved overground walking. OBJECTIVE To assess the feasibility and efficacy of daily anklebot training during early subacute hospitalization poststroke. METHODS Thirty-four inpatients from a stroke unit were randomly assigned to anklebot (n = 18) or passive manual stretching (n = 16) treatments. All suffered a first stroke with residual hemiparesis (ankle manual muscle test grade 1/5 to 4/5), and at least trace muscle activation in plantar- or dorsiflexion. Anklebot training employed an "assist-as-needed" approach during >200 volitional targeted paretic ankle movements, with difficulty adjusted to active range of motion and success rate. Stretching included >200 daily mobilizations in these same ranges. All sessions lasted 1 hour and assessments were not blinded. RESULTS Both groups walked faster at discharge; however, the robot group improved more in percentage change of temporal symmetry (P = .032) and also of step length symmetry (P = .038), with longer nonparetic step lengths in the robot (133%) versus stretching (31%) groups. Paretic ankle control improved in the robot group, with increased peak (P ≤ .001) and mean (P ≤ .01) angular speeds, and increased movement smoothness (P ≤ .01). There were no adverse events. CONCLUSION Though limited by small sample size and restricted entry criteria, our findings suggest that modular lower extremity robotics during early subacute hospitalization is well tolerated and improves ankle motor control and gait patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larry W Forrester
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA VA RR&D Maryland Exercise and Robotics Center of Excellence, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anindo Roy
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA VA RR&D Maryland Exercise and Robotics Center of Excellence, Baltimore, MD, USA University of Maryland School of Engineering, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Amanda Krywonis
- University of Maryland Rehabilitation and Orthopaedics Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Glenn Kehs
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA University of Maryland Rehabilitation and Orthopaedics Institute, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hermano Igo Krebs
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Richard F Macko
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA VA RR&D Maryland Exercise and Robotics Center of Excellence, Baltimore, MD, USA Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
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45
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Kang SH, Ren Y, Xu D, Zhang LQ. Lower-limb multi-joint stiffness of knee and ankle. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2014; 2014:4009-4012. [PMID: 25570871 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2014.6944503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Lower-limb multi-joint (knee and ankle) stiffness may play an important role in functional activities such as walking, and may be significantly altered post stroke. Thus, determination of lower-limb multi joint stiffness matrix is important for better understanding of gait and of pathological changes post stroke. In this study, using novel dynamics decomposition, the knee and ankle joint stiffness matrix including cross-coupled stiffness terms between the two joints were determined and reported ever first. The determined stiffness matrix may be useful for gait studies, and can be served as a baseline for studying pathophysiological changes post stroke.
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Zhang M, Davies TC, Zhang Y, Xie S. Reviewing effectiveness of ankle assessment techniques for use in robot-assisted therapy. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 51:517-34. [DOI: 10.1682/jrrd.2013.03.0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2013] [Revised: 12/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yanxin Zhang
- Sport and Exercise Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Zhang LQ, Chung SG, Ren Y, Liu L, Roth EJ, Rymer WZ. Simultaneous characterizations of reflex and nonreflex dynamic and static changes in spastic hemiparesis. J Neurophysiol 2013; 110:418-30. [PMID: 23636726 PMCID: PMC3727067 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00573.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study characterizes tonic and phasic stretch reflex and stiffness and viscosity changes associated with spastic hemiparesis. Perturbations were applied to the ankle of 27 hemiparetic and 36 healthy subjects under relaxed or active contracting conditions. A nonlinear delay differential equation model characterized phasic and tonic stretch reflex gains, elastic stiffness, and viscous damping. Tendon reflex was characterized with reflex gain and threshold. Reflexively, tonic reflex gain was increased in spastic ankles at rest (P < 0.038) and was not regulated with muscle contraction, indicating impaired tonic stretch reflex. Phasic-reflex gain in spastic plantar flexors was higher and increased faster with plantar flexor contraction (P < 0.012) than controls (P < 0.023) and higher in dorsi-flexors at lower torques (P < 0.038), primarily because of its increase at rest (P = 0.045), indicating exaggerated phasic stretch reflex especially in more spastic plantar flexors, which showed higher phasic stretch reflex gain than dorsi-flexors (P < 0.032). Spasticity was associated with increased tendon reflex gain (P = 0.002) and decreased threshold (P < 0.001). Mechanically, stiffness in spastic ankles was higher than that in controls across plantar flexion/dorsi-flexion torque levels (P < 0.032), and the more spastic plantar flexors were stiffer than dorsi-flexors at comparable torques (P < 0.031). Increased stiffness in spastic ankles was mainly due to passive stiffness increase (P < 0.001), indicating increased connective tissues/shortened fascicles. Viscous damping in spastic ankles was increased across the plantar flexion torque levels and at lower dorsi-flexion torques, reflecting increased passive viscous damping (P = 0.033). The more spastic plantar flexors showed higher viscous damping than dorsi-flexors at comparable torque levels (P < 0.047). Simultaneous characterizations of reflex and nonreflex changes in spastic hemiparesis may help to evaluate and treat them more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Qun Zhang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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48
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Kim EH, Chang MC, Jang MC, Seo JP, Jang SH, Song JC, Jo HM. The effect of a hand-stretching device during the management of spasticity in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients. Ann Rehabil Med 2013; 37:235-40. [PMID: 23705119 PMCID: PMC3660485 DOI: 10.5535/arm.2013.37.2.235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2012] [Accepted: 07/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe a hand-stretching device that was developed for the management of hand spasticity in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients, and the effects of this device on hand spasticity. Methods Fifteen chronic hemiparetic stroke patients with finger flexor spasticity were recruited and randomly assigned to an intervention group (8 patients) or a control group (7 patients). The stretching device consists of a resting hand splint, a finger and thumb stretcher, and a frame. In use, the stretched state was maintained for 10 minutes per exercise session, and the exercise was performed twice daily for 4 weeks. Spasticity of finger flexor muscles in the two groups was assessed 3 times, 4 weeks apart, using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS). Patients in the intervention group were assessed twice (pre-1 and pre-2) before and once (post-1) after starting the stretching program. Results Mean MAS (mMAS) scores at initial evaluations were not significantly different at pre-1 in the intervention group and at 1st assessment in the control group (p>0.05). In addition, no significant differences were observed between mMAS scores at pre-1 and pre-2 in the intervention group (p>0.05). However, mMAS scores at post-1 were significantly lower than that at pre-2 in the intervention group (p<0.05). Within the control group, no significant changes in mMAS scores were observed between 1st, 2nd, and 3rd assessments (p>0.05). In addition, mMAS scores at post-1 in the intervention group were significantly decreased compared with those at the 3rd assessment in the control group (p<0.05). Conclusion The devised stretching device was found to relieve hand spasticity effectively in chronic hemiparetic stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun Hyuk Kim
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Yeungnam University College of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
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49
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Zhang M, Davies TC, Xie S. Effectiveness of robot-assisted therapy on ankle rehabilitation--a systematic review. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2013; 10:30. [PMID: 23517734 PMCID: PMC3636117 DOI: 10.1186/1743-0003-10-30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 02/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to provide a systematic review of studies that investigated the effectiveness of robot-assisted therapy on ankle motor and function recovery from musculoskeletal or neurologic ankle injuries. METHODS Thirteen electronic databases of articles published from January, 1980 to June, 2012 were searched using keywords 'ankle*', 'robot*', 'rehabilitat*' or 'treat*' and a free search in Google Scholar based on effects of ankle rehabilitation robots was also conducted. References listed in relevant publications were further screened. Eventually, twenty-nine articles were selected for review and they focused on effects of robot-assisted ankle rehabilitation. RESULTS Twenty-nine studies met the inclusion criteria and a total of 164 patients and 24 healthy subjects participated in these trials. Ankle performance and gait function were the main outcome measures used to assess the therapeutic effects of robot-assisted ankle rehabilitation. The protocols and therapy treatments were varied, which made comparison among different studies difficult or impossible. Few comparative trials were conducted among different devices or control strategies. Moreover, the majority of study designs met levels of evidence that were no higher than American Academy for Cerebral Palsy (CP) and Developmental Medicine (AACPDM) level IV. Only one study used a Randomized Control Trial (RCT) approach with the evidence level being II. CONCLUSION All the selected studies showed improvements in terms of ankle performance or gait function after a period of robot-assisted ankle rehabilitation training. The most effective robot-assisted intervention cannot be determined due to the lack of universal evaluation criteria for various devices and control strategies. Future research into the effects of robot-assisted ankle rehabilitation should be carried out based on universal evaluation criteria, which could determine the most effective method of intervention. It is also essential to conduct trials to analyse the differences among different devices or control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - T Claire Davies
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Department of Surgery, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Shane Xie
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Ren Y, Kang SH, Park HS, Wu YN, Zhang LQ. Developing a multi-joint upper limb exoskeleton robot for diagnosis, therapy, and outcome evaluation in neurorehabilitation. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2012; 21:490-9. [PMID: 23096119 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2012.2225073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Arm impairments in patients post stroke involve the shoulder, elbow and wrist simultaneously. It is not very clear how patients develop spasticity and reduced range of motion (ROM) at the multiple joints and the abnormal couplings among the multiple joints and the multiple degrees-of-freedom (DOF) during passive movement. It is also not clear how they lose independent control of individual joints/DOFs and coordination among the joints/DOFs during voluntary movement. An upper limb exoskeleton robot, the IntelliArm, which can control the shoulder, elbow, and wrist, was developed, aiming to support clinicians and patients with the following integrated capabilities: 1) quantitative, objective, and comprehensive multi-joint neuromechanical pre-evaluation capabilities aiding multi-joint/DOF diagnosis for individual patients; 2) strenuous and safe passive stretching of hypertonic/deformed arm for loosening up muscles/joints based on the robot-aided diagnosis; 3) (assistive/resistive) active reaching training after passive stretching for regaining/improving motor control ability; and 4) quantitative, objective, and comprehensive neuromechanical outcome evaluation at the level of individual joints/DOFs, multiple joints, and whole arm. Feasibility of the integrated capabilities was demonstrated through experiments with stroke survivors and healthy subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yupeng Ren
- Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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