Effectiveness of Robot-Assisted Upper Extremity Function Training (Gloreha) on Upper Extremities Function After...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Robotics in Medicine
• Stroke Recovery

Background:

• The Gloreha (Idrogenet SRL) is a robotic system designed to augment conventional rehabilitation for post-stroke upper extremity recovery.
• Evidence regarding the comprehensive effectiveness of robotic-assisted therapy, specifically the Gloreha device, remains limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate the efficacy of the Gloreha device in enhancing upper extremity function and activities of daily living (ADLs) among stroke patients.
• To synthesize current evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on Gloreha's impact on post-stroke motor and functional recovery.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, Embase, EBSCO Open Dissertations) from January 2013 to January 2024.
• Inclusion criteria focused on RCTs involving adult stroke patients comparing Gloreha-based rehabilitation with conventional therapy, assessing upper extremity function or ADLs.
• Risk of bias assessment was performed using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials.

Main Results:

• Three RCTs with a total of 83 participants met the inclusion criteria.
• Two trials incorporated Gloreha training alongside conventional rehabilitation, while one trial utilized Gloreha training exclusively.
• Findings suggest that Gloreha, whether used independently or in conjunction with conventional methods, may improve motor function and functional capabilities in stroke survivors.

Conclusions:

• Gloreha passive training, when combined with conventional rehabilitation, demonstrates a positive impact on upper extremity function following a stroke.
• Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the effects of Gloreha on activities of daily living (ADLs) and to determine optimal long-term dosing strategies.