RESUMO
Loss of function after SCI, ABI or stroke has a marked affect on ones quality of life. Return of function has been a long-standing goal of physical and occupational therapy. Repeated motor practice has been identified as crucial for motor recovery. The development of a robotic device for neuromotor rehabilitation and upper extremity neuromuscular system recovery is described. The actuator mechanism allows free motion when possible, and provides programmable therapeutic levels of resistance. The sensor system allows characterization of the applied forces, and accurate measurement of the range of motion of the joint. The control system provides real time feedback of actuator commands based on sensor data, calibration routines, and operational modes.
RESUMO
The purpose of this study was to determine the usefulness of custom-contoured cushions (CCCs) in providing a safe sitting surface. The efficacy of CCCs was investigated using ten spinal cord injured persons who evaluated contoured foam as their primary wheelchair cushion. External pressures at the seat interface were measured on a subject's regular cushion and on a CCC to compare the respective load distributions. Pressure distributions measured on a CCC were statistically lower than those measured on the subject's usual cushion (p less than .05). Eight clinical variables were used to judge each cushion's effect on the functional abilities of wheelchair users. Sitting on a CCC seemed to improve posture and balance when compared to the subject's regular cushion. Based on these results, it is suggested that contouring technology be developed as a clinical tool for managing wheelchair users' seating problems.