The Effect of Applying Robot-Assisted Task-Oriented Training Using Human-Robot Collaborative Interaction Force Control Technology on Upper Limb Function in Stroke Patients: Preliminary Findings

Abstract

Stroke is one of the leading causes of death and the primary cause of acquired disability worldwide. Many stroke survivors have difficulty using their upper limbs, which have important functional roles in the performance of daily life activities. Consequently, the independence and quality of life of most stroke patients are reduced. Robot-assisted therapy is an effective intervention for improving the upper limb function of individuals with stroke. Human-robot collaborative interaction force control technology is critical for improving the flexibility and followability of the robot’s motion, thereby improving rehabilitation training outcomes. However, there are few reports on the effect of robot-assisted rehabilitative training on upper limb function. We applied this technology using a robot to assist patients with task-oriented training. Posttreatment changes in Fugl-Meyer and modified Barthel index (MBI) scores were assessed to determine whether this technology could improve the upper limb function of stroke patients. One healthy adult and five stroke patients, respectively, participated in functional and clinical experiments. The MBI and Fugl-Meyer scores of the five patients in the clinical experiments showed significant improvements after the intervention. The experimental results indicate that human-robot collaborative interaction force control technology is valuable for improving robots’ properties and patients’ recovery. This trial was registered in the Chinese clinical trial registry (ChiCTR2000038676).