Translational haptic feedback for post-stroke rehabilitation

The aftermath of a stroke can produce physical side effects such as reduced hand function, difficulty walking, and loss of sensation on one side of the body, all of which can lead to significant changes in lifestyle. Hand functionality is complex but vital to daily living. Researchers evaluate hand function by measuring hand posture and grip strength while individuals perform common daily activities. Loss of sensation makes using the hand even more difficult. Haptic feedback can be developed to provide some of the missing sensory information based on measured joint angles and force on the finger tips. Initial data shows fusion of joint angle and fingertip pressure can be used to describe basic hand postures. An algorithm transforms this information into feedback using micro-vibrators placed on the individual´s non-affected side to provide feedback when inappropriate force is being used. A goal of this research is to improve the current rehabilitation procedures to help individuals recover hand function and regain quality of life.