[Technological advances in neurorehabilitation].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Neurological rehabilitation formally began in the 1960s for stroke and spinal cord injury patients.
• Despite the Central Nervous System's plasticity, many patients require specialized therapies for motor function recovery.
• Severe sequelae affecting motor and sensory abilities are common after neurological injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinical applications and benefits of neurorehabilitation technologies.
• To highlight advancements in therapeutic equipment for neuronal injury.
• To discuss the role of technology in enhancing neuroplasticity.

Main Methods:

• Review of emerging neurorehabilitation technologies.
• Discussion of computer and robotic electronic devices in therapy.
• Inclusion of electrotherapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation, and robotic exoskeletons.

Main Results:

• Technological integration has significantly changed neurorehabilitation over two decades.
• Devices aim to positively influence cortical excitability and improve neuroplasticity.
• Various technologies like functional electrical stimulation and brain-computer interfaces are noted.

Conclusions:

• Neurorehabilitation technologies leverage preserved neuromuscular functions.
• These tools assist in compensating for or relearning lost functions.
• The article explores the clinical utility and advantages of these advanced therapeutic systems.