Article

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of controlled passive stretching and
active movement training using a portable rehabilitation robot on stroke
survivors with ankle and mobility impairment. METHODS: Twenty-four patients at
least 3 months post stroke were assigned to receive 6 week training using the
portable robot in a research laboratory (robot group) or an instructed exercise
program at home (control group). All patients underwent clinical and
biomechanical evaluations in the laboratory at pre-evaluation, post-evaluation,
and 6-week follow-up. RESULTS: Subjects in the robot group improved significantly
more than that in the control group in reduction in spasticity measured by
modified Ashworth scale, mobility by Stroke Rehabilitation Assessment of Movement
(STREAM), the balance by Berg balance score, dorsiflexion passive range of
motion, dorsiflexion strength, and load bearing on the affected limb during gait
after 6-week training. Both groups improved in the STREAM, dorsiflexion active
range of motion and dorsiflexor strength after the training, which were retained
in the follow-up evaluation. CONCLUSION: Robot-assisted passive stretching and
active movement training is effective in improving motor function and mobility
post stroke.

Langue : ANGLAIS