The Learning Effect of Force Feedback Enabled Robotic Rehabilitation of the Upper Limbs in Persons with MS - a Pilot Study

Abstract

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder resulting in different sorts of physical dysfunctioning, such as loss of limb function, in-coordination, altered muscle-tone, etc. Within limits, these symptoms can be treated by rehabilitational measures such as strength and functional training. The intensity of the rehabilitation is one of the key factors to a possible success. To increase the intensity, rehabilitation robotics can be a promising new technology. In this study, a Phantom haptic device was applied during a force feedback enabled training program focussing on the upper extremities in persons with MS. Seen the fact that we found no significant learning effect during the first contact with the environment and seen the improvements of the upper limb performance after 4 weeks of robotic training, this pilot study shows that force feedback supported rehabilitation can be a promising emerging new therapy. However, further research is needed to refine the technology behind it and to explore the full potential of the patient's enactive knowledge while transferring training effects of the computer generated environment to daily life functional capacity.