Mapping Hand Function with Simultaneous Brain-Spinal Cord Functional MRI.

Introduction: Hand motor control depends on intricate brain-spinal cord interactions that regulate muscle activity. Hand function can be disrupted by injury to the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves leading to weakness and impaired coordination. Functional MRI (fMRI) can map motor-related neural activity and potentially characterize the mechanisms underlying hand weakness and diminished coordination.

A magnetically controlled soft robotic glove for hand rehabilitation.

For individuals with hand motor function losses, rehabilitation is necessary for regaining strength and range of motion to accomplish daily activities. Typically within a clinical setting, repetitive strength-based and task-specific exercises are prescribed. However, these therapies are generally costly and non-portable, limiting patient accessibility and rendering patient compliance impractical.