Function Benefits of a Myoelectric Elbow-Wrist-Hand Orthosis

The objective of this study is to evaluate the functional gains provided by a myoelectric
Elbow-Wrist-Hand orthosis for CVA patients with hemiparesis. The subjects will be fit with
the device, provided general training in the operation of the EMG-controlled technology, and
then guided through a series of standard clinical outcome measures used routinely as part of
stroke rehabilitation medicine. The outcome measures employed in this study include the
Fugl-Meyer assessment, the Box and Blocks test, and a battery of common functional tasks and
activities. These outcome measures will allow the researchers to approximate the changes in
the subjects' ability to successfully perform functional tasks with and without the MyoPro
device.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Adults over 18 years.

- Upper limb impairment caused by any stroke (CVA)

- Minimum of trace MMT (1/5) in Biceps and/or Triceps

- Full Passive range of motion in elbow, forearm, wrist, and hand

- Active shoulder flexion of at least 30 degrees of shoulder abduction of at least 20
degrees

- Score of at least 20 on the Mini Mental Status Examination.

- Ability to read and comprehend the English language.

- Ability to generate consistent, detectable EMG signal from the upper arm and forearm
sensor sites with wrist in neutral or flexed positions.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Fixed upper limb contractures on affected side.

- Subjects with severe spasticity or tone (defined as 3 or more on the Modified
Ashworth Scale).

- Inability to follow three step directions.

- Severe shoulder subluxation, pain or shoulder dislocation.

- Passive shoulder range of motion less than 45 degrees in flexion and abduction.

- Pain or hypersensitivity in the arm(s)