Post-stroke maintenance therapy using a novel vibrating brace: A case study

Controlled studies show that motor function can be maintained in the chronic phase post-stroke. Unfortunately, standard of care does not currently include long-term maintenance rehabilitation for these patients. The case study reported here involved 6-weeks booster virtual rehabilitation therapy at 2 years post initial VR training. The booster used the Rutgers Arm II and a novel vibrating brace. It resulted in functional gains (9 points Fugl-Meyer score increase), larger shoulder active range of motion and more independence in Activities of Daily Living. This correlated well with improvements in game performance, and the technology received a high subjective evaluation score.