Effect of Three-Dimensional Robot-Assisted Therapy on Upper Limb Function of Patients with Stroke

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of three-dimensional robot-assisted therapy on upper limb function of patients with stroke. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-two post-stroke patients who had no visual or cognitive problems were randomly assigned to two groups: the robot-assisted training group (experimental) and control group. Robot-assisted training and comprehensive rehabilitation therapy were conducted by the experimental group. Comprehensive rehabilitation therapy was performed by the control group. Both groups received training three times per week for six weeks. [Result] Significant improvements were observed in upper limb function after training in the experimental group. Gains were greater in the experimental group than in the control group. Values of grip power, Wolf motor function test, and the box and block test increased as a result of training in the experimental group. [Conclusion] Three-dimensional robot-assisted therapy improved the upper limb function of patients with stroke.