Effect Of Robot-Assisted Versus Therapist-Based Arm Training On Arm Function After Stroke

ObjectiveThis study compared the efficacy of individual arm therapy,prolonged individual arm therapy and robot-assisted arm therapy on arm function and activity of daily life after stroke.To evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of robot-assisted arm therapy versus individual arm therapy in the same intensity to restore motor function,can result in similar improvement in movement ability after stroke.MethodsSixty patients were randomly assigned to three groups.Patients in group A received a 30 min session of robot-assisted group therapy + a 30 min individual arm therapy per workday for four weeks.Patients in group B received 2×30 min individual arm therapy sessions per workday for four weeks.Patients in group C received 1x30 min individual arm therapy sessions per workday for four weeks.To compare the FMA and MBI scores at baseline assessment,four-week assessment,and compare the change in scores over time.ResultsAll patients improved their upper limb motor function over time.To compare the three groups,the scores of FMA and MBI were significantly higher after intervention(P<0.05).The MBI showed no significant changes after arm training(P>0.05).The FMA showed significant gains in motor impairment and functional recovery of the upper limb(P<0.05),but no significant between-group differences were found between group B and C.ConclusionCompared with individual arm therapy,prolonged individual arm therapy and robot-assisted arm therapy exhibited differential effects on outcome measures.Treatment of the upper limb using robot-assisted group therapy and individual arm therapy is clinically equally effective to individual arm therapy of double intensity in restoring arm function after stroke.The intensive movement training for upper limb can improve motor outcome.