A multi-functional rehabilitation device to assist forearm/wrist and grasp therapies

Abstract

We present a novel rehabilitation device for forearm/wrist and grasp therapy of a neurologically injured human arm and hand. Emphasizing the importance of coordinated movements of the wrist and hand while performing activities of daily living (ADL) tasks, the device is designed to assist abduction/adduction and palmar/dorsal flexion of the wrist and pronation/supination of the forearm, concurrently with grasping and releasing movements of hand. Thanks to its modular, interchangeable end-effectors, the device supports ADL exercises, such as door opening. It can also be used as a measurement device, to characterize the range of motion and the isometric strength of the injured forearm/wrist and hand. Usability studies have been conducted and accuracy of the measurements provided with the device has been characterized.