Safety and Efficacy Evaluation of the Robotic Enhanced Error Training of Upper Limb Function in Post-stroke and Post TBI Participants

In the researchers' words

Background: Cerebrovascular accident \[CVA or commonly known as stroke\] and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are common causes of morbidity, and motor impairments. Many stroke and TBI patients encounter severe functional impairments of their arm and/or hand. Recent studies have indicated that robotic training can improve upper limb function by enabling repetitive, adaptive, and intensive training. One type of robotic training is error enhancement during three-dimensional movements. The goal of this approach is to elicit better accuracy, stability, fluidity and range of motion during reaching. Previous research indicated the potential of robotic training with error enhancement as a viable clinical intervention for individuals facing motor deficits. Objectives: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a new robotic system based on error enhancement and intended for rehabilitation of motor hand functions of post-stroke and TBI patients. Methods: A randomized, multi-center study with an open-label design. The study sample will consist of 96 participants who will be randomized into 2 separate groups. The intervention group consisting of 48 patients will receive training with the new robotic system, while the control group consisting of additional 48 patients will receive only standard practice treatments (with no exposure to the new robotic system). The outcomes of safety (adverse…