Stimulation Device to treat Hand Weakness from Stroke or Spinal Injury

A growing number of people experience hand weakness due to stroke or spinal cord injuries. Electrical stimulation (e-stim) devices are commonly used to assist in hand weakness therapy. However, they are bulky, expensive, uncomfortable (may be ill-fitting, cause skin irritation or unpleasant sensation), and non-portable, eliminating the potential for in-home use. Further, e-stim pads are sticky with limited use recommendations before they must be replaced which require frequent changes. Current materials on the market used to make adhering e-stim pads may cause further discomfort to the user or injury if not replaced as recommended.

 

Researchers at Arizona State University, in collaboration with an occupational therapist at Barrow Neurological Institute, developed a novel assistive device to help patients with chronic weakness in their hand stemming from stroke or spinal cord injury. This assistive device is more ergonomic and aligned with the natural curvature of the hand. The design incorporates e-stim pads placed on selective muscles to stimulate muscle contractions and induce a grip that is much more natural and functional. Additionally, the pads use electrodes which press onto the skin and induce current through NMES. These pads do not need to be changed, like with traditional pads, nor do they need to be adhered to the skin.

 

This portable assistive device features a sleek and ergonomic design that induces a more natural gripping style making it more comfortable for patients, and allowing for at home use and greater patient independence.

 

Potential Applications

Benefits and Advantages