This study aimed to investigate whether iterative learning control (ILC) mediated by FES is a feasible intervention in upper limb stroke rehabilitation. Five hemiparetic participants undertook supported tracking tasks using 27 different trajectories augmented by responsive FES to their triceps brachii muscle, with their hand movement constrained in a 2-dimensional plane by a robot. Eighteen 1-hour treatment sessions were used with 2 participants receiving an additional 7 treatment sessions. Compliance was excellent and there were no adverse events. Statistically significant improvements were measured in FMA motor score, unassisted tracking for 3 out of 4 trajectories, and in isometric force over 5 out of 6 directions. Changes in ARAT were not statistically significant.
This study has demonstrated the feasibility of using ILC mediated by FES for upper limb stroke rehabilitation.
Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, 2009, 23(6), 559-568