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A new study has been published that shows the positive effects of using Bioservo’s technology to strengthen the grip of the hand. The latest study investigated using the assisted robotic glove in the home environment for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), or who have had a stroke.
The latest in a series of studies published this past year, it was conducted in a collaboration between Karolinska Institutet’s Dept. of Clinical Sciences and Danderyd Hospital, Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden.
A variety of daily activities were investigated. The most striking improvement for the patients tested was their ability to hold onto an object for a long time with a firm grip. One MS patient said, “The advantage has been that I have been able to use my left hand to lift things up and grab things—first grab and then lift. I couldn’t do that before.”
The company’s Ironhand system consists of a glove and power pack worn in a backpack or hip-carry. Via a remote control or an app, the operator can adjust the force, the balance between the fingers, the sensitivity, locking and other settings to adjust the system to the work situation
A previously published article in Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation shows that home rehabilitation with Bioservo Technologies grip-strengthening glove leads to improved hand function for people with spinal cord injury. The conclusion from the study is that rehabilitation with the robotic glove is effective in improving and maintaining gross and fine motor function.
Another article published in the scientific journal PLoS ONE, detailed research results that show that the glove, either as an aid or as a training tool, can be a way to counter the deterioration of hand function associated with aging.
Bioservo Technologies AB makes wearable muscle strengthening systems. Its soft, exoskeleton technology for the hand is also used in industrial settings to support worker safety and well-being.