Using Mobi-L RYMO to target spasticity in patient with chronic stroke: A case series study

Stroke represents one of the main causes of permanent disability, with persistent upper limb motor deficits in 50% of patients; post-stroke spasticity limits functional recovery and quality of life. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of robotic device RYMO (Mobi-L) on spasticity management, motor function recovery, and subjective satisfaction in patients with chronic stroke.

A descriptive case-series study was conducted on three patients with chronic stroke (>2 years). Each subject performed five sessions of robotic training with RYMO (Mobi-L) in active-assisted mode (45 minutes of effective training per session). Pre- and post-treatment assessments (T0-T1) included the Modified Ashworth Scale, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, Motricity Index, Barthel Index, Client Satisfaction Questionnaire and Patient Global Impression of Change.

All patients completed the treatment cycle without adverse events, and showed a positive direction of change for MAS score at elbow and wrist districts. Motor improvements were more evident in proximal segments on FMA-UE, with slight increases of Motricity Index. Barthel Index remained unchanged, while satisfaction (CSQ-8) was high (31/32) and perceived change (PGIC) was moderate-positive (2/3). Despite the short duration of the protocol and the small sample size, results suggest a clinically impact on tone modulation and functional perception, with a higher self-perceived efficacy in daily activities.