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About

Lorena Palafox is a leading researcher in neurorehabilitation engineering, with a focus on developing accessible, patient-centered technologies for motor recovery after stroke. Her work bridges the gap between complex robotic systems and practical clinical tools, emphasizing mechanical simplicity and therapeutic efficacy. Palafox’s most influential contribution is her landmark randomized controlled trial on robot training for hand motor recovery in subacute stroke patients (2015, 95 citations), which demonstrated significant improvements in hand function through targeted, repetitive therapy. This study remains a cornerstone in evidence-based robotic rehabilitation. She also pioneered the design and pilot testing of the Resonating Arm Exerciser (2013, 25 citations), a mechanically passive rehabilitation device that mimics robotic active assistance without complex actuators, offering a low-cost, safe alternative for widespread clinical adoption. Her research has directly informed the development of semi-autonomous training protocols that empower therapists and motivate patients. Palafox’s work is distinguished by its translational impact, making advanced rehabilitation accessible beyond specialized centers. Her contributions have shaped how clinicians integrate robotic and passive devices into stroke recovery, earning her recognition as a key innovator in affordable neurorehabilitation technology.