Robot training enhanced motor outcome in patients with stroke maintained over 3 years

In an attempt to improve motor recovery of the upper limb after stroke, we added a robot (MIT-Manus) experience that provided additional goal-directed sensorimotor activity to standard rehabilitation treatments. The first tri al produced a significant decrease in motor impairment in the upper limb fo r the treated group. In re-evaluating 12 of those 20 patients, nearly 3 yea rs later, robot-trained patients showed further significant decreases in im pairment measures of the affected limb. The groups were comparable at the s tart of the study.