Robot-assisted therapy for neuromuscular training of sub-acute stroke patients. A feasibility study

Aim. Several studies have described the contribution of robotics technology in providing effective treatment options for improving upper-extremity functions in patients with hemiparesis following stroke. The aim of this study was to conduct a preliminary assessment of patient acceptance of an upper extremity robot, the Reo™Therapy System (Motorika Ltd., Israel), developed specifically for neuromuscular training of upper extremities for use in rehabilitation centers and outpatient clinics. Methods. Ten in-patient sub-acute stroke patients aged 30-60 years participated in the study. They received 15 sessions of forty five minutes training with the Reo™Therapy System, in addition to traditional occupational and physical therapy. A feedback questionnaire of the patients'satisfaction, the Fugl-Meyer test and the Manual Function Test (MFT) were used as outcome measures. Results. Patient satisfaction with the robot-assisted therapy program and acceptance of working with Reo™Therapy System was very good. Arm impairment and functionality as measured with the Fugl-Meyer and the MFT increased significantly after treatment. Conclusion. The Reo™ Therapy System was found to be valued by patients. Further research is necessary in order to identify the most efficient balance of Reo Therapy and traditional therapy methods.