Burke-Hocoma Efficiency Study

In the proposed study, 20 stable subacute and chronic stroke patients will be placed in two groups: 2:1 treatment for 3 weeks (2 patients on 2 robots with one therapist; 60 minutes on robot) then 1 on 1 intervention with the therapist (60 minutes of Hocoma Armeo Spring robotic training) or visa versa. Patients will be assessed using robotic kinematics and standardized occupational therapy motor assessments. The extreme precision afforded by robotic physical rehabilitation therapies makes them an appealing and growing field in rehabilitation.

Determining efficiency of new technologies, while maintaining the highest quality of care, is of priority in the medical field at this time. Devices such as the ArmeoSpring could lead to reduced disability, thereby increasing function and improving quality of life in patients experiencing neurological illness or injury. The ArmeoSpring has potential to decrease cost for both the provider and patient over time while providing more engaging, evidence-based therapy.

Inclusion criteria

• Unilateral or bilateral upper extremity hemiparesis/hemiplegia
• Upper extremity Fugl-Meyer Assessment Score between 7-60 (Neither hemiplegic nor fully recovered motor function of the shoulder, elbow, wrist)

Exclusion criteria

• Inability to follow 1-2 step commands
• Fixed joint contracture
• Unable to tolerate repetitious movement exhibited by pain greater than 5 on Likert Scale
• Any device dependent restrictions