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Neurological Sciences

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01-03-2022 | Stroke | Review Article

Robot-assisted distal training improves upper limb dexterity and function after stroke: a systematic review and meta-regression

Authors: Menglu Zhao, Guangning Wang, Aimin Wang, Ling Jie Cheng, Ying Lau

Published in: Neurological Sciences | Issue 3/2022

Abstract

Introduction

Stroke is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide, and more than half of stroke patients face distal upper extremity dysfunction. Considering that robot-assisted training may be effective in improving distal upper extremity function, the review evaluated the effect of robot-assisted distal training on motor function, hand dexterity, and spasticity after stroke.

Methods

Eleven databases were systematically searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) from inception until Aug 28, 2021. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were performed to investigate the overall effect and source of heterogeneity, respectively.

Results

Twenty-two trials involving 758 participants were included in this systematic review. The overall effect of robot-assisted distal training on the motor function of the wrists and hands was significant improvement (MD = 3.92; 95% CI, 3.04–4.80; P < 0.001). The robot-assisted training had a significantly beneficial effect on other motor functions (MD = 2.84; 95% CI, 1.54–4.14; P < 0.001); dexterity (MD = 9.01; 95% CI, -12.07–-5.95; P < 0.001), spasticity, upper extremity strength (SMD = 0.42; 95% CI, 0.07–0.78; P = 0.02) and activities of daily living (SMD = 0.70; 95% CI, 0.29–1.23; P < 0.001). A series of subgroup analyses showed preferable design and effective regime of training. Meta-regression indicated the statistically significant effect of the year of trial, country, and duration on the effectiveness of training.

Conclusion

Robot-assisted distal training has a significant effect on motor function, dexterity and spasticity of the upper extremity, compared to conventional therapy.

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Title: Robot-assisted distal training improves upper limb dexterity and function after stroke: a systematic review and meta-regression
Authors: Menglu Zhao
Guangning Wang
Aimin Wang
Ling Jie Cheng
Ying Lau
Publication date: 01-03-2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing
Keyword: Stroke
Published in: Neurological Sciences / Issue 3/2022
Print ISSN: 1590-1874
Electronic ISSN: 1590-3478
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10072-022-05913-3

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Robot-assisted distal training improves upper limb dexterity and function after stroke: a systematic review and meta-regression

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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