Robotic arm training in neurorehabilitation enhanced by augmented reality – a usability and feasibility study

Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 2023 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-023-01225-5 · Published: July 26, 2023

Assistive Technology Neurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores using a robotic arm and augmented reality (AR) to help people with neurological conditions improve their arm movement. The system, called RobExReha, combines a robot arm with a special headset that shows virtual objects overlaid on the real world, creating an interactive game-like therapy. Researchers tested the RobExReha system with patients who had arm weakness due to stroke, spinal cord injury, or Guillain-Barré Syndrome. They compared the experience of these patients with a group who used standard robotic therapy devices to see if the AR system was safe, easy to use, and helpful. The results showed that the RobExReha system was safe and generally well-received by patients and therapists. While some aspects of the system need improvement, the study suggests that combining robotics and AR holds promise for making arm rehabilitation more engaging and effective.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

11 RobExReha-Patients, 5 RobExReha-Therapists, 11 Reference Group patients

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The RobExReha system was found to be safe and feasible for patients and therapists in a neurorehabilitation setting.
2
Patients and therapists were generally satisfied with the usability of the RobExReha system, although the reference group rated reliability and ease of use higher.
3
Nearly all patients using the RobExReha system perceived the gaming scenario in AR as functioning adequately, even those with impairments in stereoscopic vision.

Research Summary

The study evaluated the safety, clinical feasibility, and usability of a novel arm rehabilitation device (RobExReha) combining a robotic arm and augmented reality serious game for neurorehabilitation. Results indicated safe use of the device with neurologically impaired patients and acceptable usability reported by patients and therapists. The AR gaming environment was well-received, even by patients with stereoscopic vision impairments. The study identified areas for improvement, such as system stability and arm orthosis adjustability, to enhance the usability and effectiveness of the RobExReha system.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

The RobExReha system shows potential as a safe and feasible tool for upper limb rehabilitation in neurological patients, offering a novel approach by integrating robotics and augmented reality.

Future Research

Further research should focus on improving system stability and adjustability to enhance usability and address the identified limitations. Exploring different gaming scenarios and cognitive function levels would broaden the applicability of the system.

Technology Development

The findings support the development of technology-assisted therapy devices that combine robotics and AR, emphasizing the need for stable, simple, and easy-to-use systems in neurorehabilitation. Consideration should be given to the therapist's perspective and the optimization of the gaming environment.

Study Limitations

1
The RobExReha system was only available for training of the right arm, limiting patient inclusion and potentially introducing bias.
2
The study enrolled patients with good cognitive abilities, which does not reflect the wide variation of neurological patients potentially training with robotic devices.
3
The study was not blinded, and personnel shortages sometimes led to participants acting as both assessors and administering therapists, potentially leading to biased results.

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