Study of Hand Therapy 3 to 24 Months After Stroke

Many stroke survivors have significant limitations of upper extremity function which impacts
many important activities such as eating, dressing and personal care. Studies show that to be
effective in increasing functional independence, therapy must involve active participation of
the patient and repetitive training. Robotic therapy offers a means of transferring some of
this essential, but time consuming, therapy into the home. Seventy subjects (3 to 12 months
post stroke)are being randomized to a control group that utilizes an innovative robotic hand
therapy device in the home for three months or a control group that receives no device
treatment. Clinical motor function and quality of life measures will compare the groups
before intervention, immediately after, and 3 months later. The control group will receive
device treatment for 3 months following their final evaluation. The results will provide
valuable data on the ability of monitored home therapy to provide effective treatment. This
project has the potential to increase the availability of effective rehabilitation techniques
to patients with stroke.

Inclusion Criteria:

- 3 to 24 months post stroke

- Able to extend wrist and fingers at least 10 degrees

- Functional hearing and vision

- Able to follow instructions

- Lives at home, not institution

- Stable medications for 3 months

Exclusion Criteria:

- Excessive cognitive impairments

- Taking/Receiving medicines/shots to make arm/hand less stiff

- Severe pain in the impaired arm

- Stroke was more than 24 months ago