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The Coleman Neuromuscular

 Hand Rehabilitation 

        The goal of our research is to improve recovery of motor functions following neurological injuries, such as stroke. We have three major thrusts of research: to further understanding of sensorimotor control mechanisms in the hand, to delineate the pathological changes that follow injury such as stroke, and to develop and test assistive mechatronic devices.

1) Model of the Index Finger Hood

Control of the hand is fundamental to activities of daily living. In order to further understanding of the control mechanisms in the hand, we have developed a dynamic 3-D model of the index finger using what we knew about the neuromuscular process and what we learned from cadaveric studies. Geometric properties of muscles of interest were recorded in previous experiments, and in the experiment following, each muscle is loaded with forces while resultant fingertip forces and extensor hood stress are recorded with load cell and camera system. The model simulates the finger biomechanics and predicts finger movement generated by specific EMG signal that excites the muscles.

2) Weakness in the upper extremity   

Weakness in the upper extremity often follows stroke. We are delineating the pathological changes that occur following stroke, especially changes in functional grasp and release characteristics, which contribute to unstable grip. Also common after stroke are changes in coactivation between the upper limb and hand muscles and passive muscle properties. We utilize force sensors, torque cells, MRI and ultrasonography.
       

  3) Assistive Devices

     Finally, we are developing and testing assistive devices that can be used at home and in therapy. Current rehabilitation after stroke focuses on functional tasks that are important to maintaining or gaining independence in activites of daily living, and often includes the practice of walking, dressing, and eating. Hand function, therefore, often remains significantly impaired in chronic stroke survivors. Our assistive devices are meant to mediate practice of grasp and release tasks to facilitate finger extension after stroke. These devices are used in conjunction with virtual reality environments or activities of daily living in hope they will accelerate hand rehabilitation.                   

 
This page was last updated Wednesday November 25 2009