Tuyển tập báo cáo các nghiên cứu khoa học quốc tế ngành y học dành cho các bạn tham khảo đề tài: The Armeo Spring as training tool to improve upper limb functionality in multiple sclerosis: a pilot study | Gijbels et al. Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation 2011 8 5 http content 8 1 5 Hill JOURNAL OF NEUROENGINEERING NCR AND REHABILITATION RESEARCH Open Access The Armeo Spring as training tool to improve upper limb functionality in multiple sclerosis a pilot study 3f 1 f 1 f Domien Gijbels Ilse Lamers Lore Kerkhofs Geert Alders Els Knippenberg Peter Feys 1 Abstract Background Few research in multiple sclerosis MS has focused on physical rehabilitation of upper limb dysfunction though the latter strongly influences independent performance of activities of daily living. Upper limb rehabilitation technology could hold promise for complementing traditional MS therapy. Consequently this pilot study aimed to examine the feasibility of an 8-week mechanical-assisted training program for improving upper limb muscle strength and functional capacity in MS patients with evident paresis. Methods A case series was applied with provision of a training program 3x week 30 minutes session supplementary on the customary maintaining care by employing a gravity-supporting exoskeleton apparatus Armeo Spring . Ten high-level disability MS patients Expanded Disability Status Scale actively performed task-oriented movements in a virtual real-life-like learning environment with the affected upper limb. Tests were administered before and after training and at 2-month follow-up. Muscle strength was determined through the Motricity Index and Jamar hand-held dynamometer. Functional capacity was assessed using the TEMPA Action Research Arm Test ARAT and 9-Hole Peg Test 9HPT . Results Muscle strength did not change significantly. Significant gains were particularly found in functional capacity tests. After training completion TEMPA scores improved p while a trend towards significance was found for the 9HPT p . At follow-up the TEMPA as well as ARAT showed greater improvement relative to baseline than after the 8-week intervention period
