Wrist Rehabilitation Robot System and Its Effectiveness for Patients

Abstract

The authors have developed a practical wrist rehabilitation robot for hemiplegic patients. It consists of a desk equipped with mechanical rotating handle grips, sensors, a computer, and a display. Myoelectric sensors, which are bioelectric signal detectors, are used to monitor the extensor carpi radialis longus/brevis muscle and flexor carpi radialis muscle activity during training. Training effectiveness is ensured by monitoring the extension and flexion of the appropriate muscles. A feature of the system is that it operates as a dual-wrist system, developed to mirror the training between wrists, making autonomous training of either wrist possible. A user-friendly touch screen interface is provided; the screen displays progress data and images to encourage the patients towards completion of the necessary rehabilitation tasks critical to facilitate recovery. The developed robotic system is relatively compact and portable. The effectiveness of this system has been confirmed through clinical trials, and motivational effectiveness has been confirmed through electroencephalography (EEG)-based evaluation and direct survey.