An innovative system to enhance upper-extremity stroke rehabilitation

There is a need to develop and evaluate alternative techniques for upper-extremity stroke rehabilitation. Currently there are many promising therapeutic techniques; however, the cost is generally too high and the participation tends to drop off. A unique design is proposed that modifies a mass-marketed joystick and features: a) an extended joystick that enables a larger range of motion and arm movements in both the horizontal and vertical fields that can be augmented with passive springs, b) motors in series with mechanical springs capable of providing moderate assistive forces, and c) an approach emphasizing computer-assisted motivating therapy that takes advantage of commercial gaming industry products.