Smart Device-Based Therapy on Hand Motor Function Improvement in Stroke Survivors During Rehabilitation: Scoping
Kristine Krumina1,2, Una Krumina3, Agnese Mikelsone3
1Department of Residency, Riga Stradiņš University, Dzirciema Street 16, Riga, LV-1007, Latvia, +371 67409125.
JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies
|November 5, 2025
Summary
Smart device therapies show promise for improving hand motor function in stroke survivors, offering an engaging alternative to traditional rehabilitation. Further research is needed to optimize these innovative interventions.
Area of Science:
- Neurorehabilitation
- Digital Health
- Stroke Recovery
Background:
- Upper limb impairment affects 40-50% of stroke survivors.
- Traditional therapy has accessibility limitations.
- Smart device telerehabilitation offers a scalable, engaging alternative.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify smart device interventions for stroke survivor hand motor function.
- Assess effectiveness compared to traditional methods.
Main Methods:
- Scoping review following PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
- Comprehensive literature search across major databases.
- Screening of 958 studies, with 17 meeting inclusion criteria.
Main Results:
- Included studies used diverse digital strategies: gamification, VR/MR, sensor-based, robotic, and app-based systems.
- Smart device therapies demonstrated improvements in hand motor function, often reaching clinical significance.
- These interventions also enhanced patient engagement and adherence.
Conclusions:
- Smart device therapies hold significant potential for stroke survivor hand motor function enhancement.
- Ongoing development necessitates future studies on long-term effectiveness and optimized designs.
- Further exploration of broader applications in stroke rehabilitation is recommended.
