Kinematic parameters obtained with the ArmeoSpring for upper-limb assessment after stroke: a reliability and learning...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Kinematic measures are crucial for quantifying upper-extremity sensorimotor impairments post-stroke.
• Robotic devices like the ArmeoSpring exoskeleton aid in motor rehabilitation but require validation as assessment tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the psychometric properties of kinematic parameters measured by the ArmeoSpring exoskeleton in post-stroke patients.
• To evaluate the reliability and sensitivity of the ArmeoSpring for assessing motor impairment and learning.

Main Methods:

• Thirty post-stroke patients participated in three assessment sessions performing a 'horizontal catch' exercise.
• Five kinematic parameters and a global score were computed from ArmeoSpring data.
• Learning effects, retention, and reliability (ICC, MDC) were analyzed using ANOVA and correlation coefficients.

Main Results:

• Significant inter- and intra-session learning effects were observed for most kinematic parameters.
• The ArmeoSpring demonstrated moderate to excellent relative reliability for all measured parameters.
• Minimal Detectable Change (MDC) values ranged from 42.6% to 102.8%.

Conclusions:

• The ArmeoSpring exoskeleton is a reliable and sensitive tool for assessing motor impairment and intervention effects in stroke survivors.
• A familiarization session enhances the ArmeoSpring's utility for tracking motor learning processes post-stroke.