Effects of Robot-Assisted Upper Extremity Training on Cognitive and Physical Functions in Patients With Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Study.

OBJECTIVE: Primary aim was to investigate the effects of upper extremity robot-assisted training, applied in addition to conventional rehabilitation program, on cognitive functions after stroke. Secondary aim was to investigate its effects on upper extremity motor functions and activities, hand dexterity, and daily living activities. DESIGN: Forty postacute stroke patients were randomized into robotic ( n  = 20) and control ( n  = 20) groups. All patients received a conventional rehabilitation program for 6 weeks, total 30 sessions. The robotic group received additional robot-assisted training to the affected upper extremity by exoskeleton robotic system at each session. Cognitive functions (Montreal Cognitive Assessment), upper extremity motor functions (Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity), upper extremity activities (Motor Activity Log-28), hand dexterity (Box and Block Test), and daily living activities (Functional Independence Measure) were assessed before and after the treatment, and at 3-mo follow-up. RESULTS: Both groups showed significant improvements regarding primary and secondary outcomes ( P  < 0.05). However, improvements in all outcome measures did not differ significantly between the groups ( P  > 0.0167). CONCLUSIONS: Upper extremity robot-assisted training applied in addition to conventional rehabilitation program in postacute stroke provided no extra benefit in terms of improvements in cognitive functions, as well as upper extremity motor functions and activities, hand dexterity, and daily living activities.