Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan WK (1), Lai WLR (1), Wong SM (1), Ho WK (1)
Affiliation :
(1) Occupational Therapy Department, Tung Wah Eastern Hospital
Keyword 3: :
neurological rehabilitation
Keyword 4: :
optimal dosage
Introduction :
The ArmeoPower (AP) is a widely used robotic exoskeleton for intensive upper limb rehabilitation after stroke. However, clinical consensus on its optimal training dosage and best practice protocols remains lacking.
Objectives :
This pilot study aimed to determine the optimal weekly training dosage for the ArmeoPower exoskeleton to maximize upper limb motor recovery and functional independence in ambulatory stroke rehabilitation.
Methodology :
Stroke patients attending Integrated Community Rehabilitation Center (ICRC) with moderate-to-severe upper limb impairment (Fugl–Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity [FMA-UE] score range from 1 to 32) were randomly assigned to one of two 5-week AP training regimens: Group A (3 sessions/week) or Group B (1 session/week). Outcomes were measured using the FMA-UE, Functional Independence Measure (FIM) and Lawton Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (Lawton IADL) scale.
Result & Outcome :
Eleven patients completed the five-week program. While both groups showed improvement trends, the higher-dosage group (three sessions/week) demonstrated significant gains in upper limb motor function (FMA-UE p < 0.05) and functional independence (FIM p
