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Published on: June 12, 2019
Improved Flexor Spasticity in Patients with Chronic Stroke Using a Dynamic Wrist-Hand Stretching Device: A Pilot
Jacob Kim1, Justin Kim2, Philbert Chen3
1The College of Arts & Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Neurorehabilitation
|July 3, 2026
Summary
A novel dynamic stretching device, Hand Stretcher®, significantly reduced wrist and finger spasticity in chronic stroke patients. This device offers a safe, practical addition to conventional rehabilitation for improving post-stroke recovery and hand function.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Hand and wrist spasticity frequently complicates stroke recovery, impacting daily living and independence.
- Conventional treatments for spasticity are often time-consuming, necessitating innovative solutions for consistent management.
- Dynamic stretching devices offer a potential avenue for minimally supervised, regular therapeutic intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of the Hand Stretcher®, a dynamic passive stretching device, in mitigating spasticity and enhancing hand function in chronic stroke survivors.
- To evaluate the safety and practicality of using this novel device as an adjunct to standard rehabilitation protocols.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 30 chronic stroke patients (spasticity MAS < 3, motor weakness MMT 3-4) was conducted.
- Participants were assigned to either an intervention group using the Hand Stretcher® for 2 months or a control group receiving conventional rehabilitation.
- Outcomes, including Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Manual Muscle Testing (MMT), Manual Functional Test, and Brunnstrom stage, were measured at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months.
Main Results:
- The intervention group demonstrated significant reductions in wrist and finger flexor spasticity (MAS) without adverse events.
- Improvements were noted in the Manual Functional Test and Brunnstrom stage in the intervention group by the study's end.
- No significant changes in wrist or finger extensor strength (MMT) were observed in either group.
Conclusions:
- Two months of intensive Hand Stretcher® use effectively reduced wrist and finger flexor spasticity in chronic stroke patients.
- The device proved to be a safe and practical adjunct, showing potential for improving hand function and aiding post-stroke recovery.
- Further research may explore long-term effects and optimal integration into rehabilitation programs.
