Robot-aided sensorimotor training in stroke rehabilitation.

The first groups to use robotic devices to enhance the sensorimotor experience of patients recovering from upper limb paralysis after stroke have generated encouraging information. Patient acceptance and staff enthusiasm for robot training at Burke--MIT is consistently high. Robot training data are consistent with other controlled studies showing that more activity leads to more motor improvement and decreased impairment. Therapists equipped with a robotic device can increase the amount and intensity of movement of the paralyzed limb without sacrificing time spent training complex functionally appropriate kinematics.