Robotic bimanual arm training improves upper limb function in children with hemiparesis: a feasibility study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric rehabilitation
• Neurorehabilitation
• Robotics in medicine

Background:

• Bimanual training offers superior upper limb functional gains in children with hemiparesis compared to unimanual training.
• Repetitive, skilled practice is essential for effective motor interventions in pediatric hemiplegia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a bimanual-to-unimanual robotic training device for improving hand function in children with hemiplegia.
• To evaluate the impact of robotic training on specific motor outcome measures: Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA), Box and Blocks Test (BBT), and Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF).

Main Methods:

• A feasibility study involving 8 children (age 5-17) with hemiparesis using the Bimanual Arm Trainer (BAT) robotic device.
• The BAT facilitates mirrored bimanual movements and incorporates a gaming interface for repetitive practice, offering both bimanual and unimanual training components.
• Participants completed 18 training sessions over 9 weeks (2x/week).

Main Results:

• Despite study interruption by COVID-19, significant improvements were observed in bimanual function as measured by the Assisting Hand Assessment (AHA).
• No significant changes were noted in range of motion.

Conclusions:

• The bimanual-to-unimanual robotic training approach is feasible and effective for enhancing bimanual hand function in children with hemiplegia.
• Children responded positively to the robotic device, providing valuable feedback for interface improvement.
• Further research is required to establish optimal training parameters for maximizing functional gains.