Effect of Brain-Computer Interface-Controlled Ankle Robot Training on Post-Stroke Motor Rehabilitation and Resting...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Clinical Neurology

Background:

• Persistent ankle impairment after stroke significantly impacts functional recovery.
• Brain-computer interface (BCI)-controlled robotic systems show promise for stroke rehabilitation, but their effectiveness and impact on neuroplasticity require further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of BCI-controlled ankle robot training on motor recovery in stroke survivors.
• To assess neuroplastic changes using quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) following BCI-robot therapy.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-two stroke patients were randomly assigned to either BCI-robot training or conventional ankle-robot training for 2 weeks.
• Motor function was assessed using Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Lower Extremity (FMA-LE), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Functional Ambulatory Category (FAC), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), active range of motion (AROM), and muscle strength.
• Quantitative EEG (qEEG) analyzed delta, theta, alpha, and beta band power, spectral ratios, Brain Symmetry Index (pdBSI), and functional connectivity.

Main Results:

• Both groups improved in AROM, strength, FMA-LE, BBS, and FAC.
• The BCI group showed significantly greater improvements in FMA-LE and reduced calf spasticity (MAS) compared to the control group.
• qEEG revealed decreased delta and increased alpha power, reduced asymmetry (pdBSI-δ), and enhanced functional connectivity in the BCI group.

Conclusions:

• BCI-controlled ankle robot training offers significant benefits for motor function and spasticity reduction in post-stroke patients.
• Neurophysiological changes observed with BCI training suggest enhanced neuroplastic reorganization, including normalized brain activity and improved connectivity.