Researchers use robotics to help stroke survivors

As part of a collection of studies conducted on stroke rehabilitation, VA Maryland Health Care System researchers are exploring robotics to better rehabilitate stroke survivors and to help them achieve functions that are as close to normal as possible.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Researchers at the VA Maryland Health Care System have found that an adaptive approach to stroke treatment can help stroke survivors improve gait. Using a specialized ankle robot – Anklebot − researchers can train participants in various ways to improve control of their weakened leg, either by playing videogames from a seated position or during task-oriented locomotor training on a treadmill. Read more →

InMotion Robots For Rehabilitation Featured in Biz Tech Magazine

“We’re definitely doing something that’s very interesting with technology. We’re really changing people’s lives.”
Rodolfo Rohr, President and CEO

It’s been 24 years since MIT scientists began looking into using robots to help stroke victims recover motor skills.

Because neuroscience research points to evidence that the brain is not hard-wired — it’s flexible and can recover from ­injury — MIT professors Neville ­Hogan and Hermano I. Krebs at the ­Newman Lab for biomechanics and human ­rehabilitation are using advanced robotic technology to enhance the brain’s ability to recover from neurologic injury.

Through the MIT-Manus project, they led a team to develop robotic devices that help clinicians deliver intensive interactive therapy in an efficient manner. The robots help with the same movements that patients perform with physical therapists’ guidance, but patients can do far more repetitions with the robots. Plus, the robots can objectively measure each patient’s progress.

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Chungnam National University Hospital receives InMotion Robotic Therapy

HOSPI Co., Ltd., Interactive Motion Technologies’ distribution partner in South Korea, helped to celebrate the opening of Chungnam National University Hospital, a new rehabilitation center, by demonstrating the InMotion ARM Robot to many physicians.

Chungnam National University Hospital demonstrating the InMotion ARM Robot

USA Today— Socially assistive robots provide a break for patients

After a stroke in April left Steve Dimon paralyzed and on life support, he felt trapped inside his own body, unable to move a finger or wiggle his toes on his left side.

Weeks of rigorous rehabilitation at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center in California also were exhausting, until a different kind of therapist paid a visit to the Los Angeles native: a robot named Bandit. Read more →