PTS glove passive tactile stimulation for stroke rehab - Renewal

Abstract

We are developing wearable stimulation devices to improve limb function after stroke. The technology includes a tactile stimulation method (PTS) and the wireless, lightweight, and low-cost wearable computing devices to apply this stimulation. A preliminary study with a prototype PTS Glove showed promising results compared to a non-vibrating sham glove in 16 stroke patients receiving 3 hours of vibration per day over 8 weeks. Participants in this initial study reported increase in protective sensation, sense of embodiment, and return to activities such as cleaning, cooking and writing using their disabled hand. Thus far during our first year of support from Neuroscience:Translate, we designed three ambidextrous, one-size-fits-all wearable stimulation devices with accommodations for users with paralysis. In addition, we tested stimulation waveforms for comfort and tolerance. This 2020 award will allow us to: (1) compare PTS to the standard of care (intramuscular injection of Botox) (2) design a PTS device for the lower limbs (3) perform an initial trial of PTS for spastic cerebral palsy. The long-term goal of our research is to develop mobile, mechanism-based interventions to improve motor ability that can be used on-the-go or at home.  

This project is a renewal of a 2019 Neuroscience:Translate Project.