Developments and the rehabilitation effects of the power assist hand and leg.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to confirm the effect of the power assisted air pressured bellows experimental device on patient with hemiplegia. We used air pressured bellows as rehabilitation to joint actuator, and it was performed on hands and legs of hemiplegic patients. Moreover, we measured cerebral blood flow using an NIRS device during the rehabilitation. Each patient had individual rehabilitation menu using a power assisted device. As a result, each side has a different effect. Hemiplegia on the right side of the hand influences the left side of the brain. On the other hand, hemiplegia on the left side of the hand affects the right side of the brain. In conclusion, patients with hemiplegia on the opposite side of the paralyzed hand had a larger cerebral blood flow changes during rehabilitation.