Effects of Intensive Vibratory Treatment with a Robotic System on the Recovery of Sensation and Function in Patients with Subacute and Chronic Stroke: A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background: Sensory-motor deficits are frequent and affect the functionality after stroke. The use of robotic systems to improve functionality and motor performance is advisable; therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of intensive, high-frequency vibration treatment administered with a robotic system in subacute and chronic stroke patients in terms of upper limb sensitivity, motor function, quantity and quality of movement, and quality of life.

Methods: A simple-blind, non-randomized controlled trial was conducted. The control group received conventional rehabilitation treatment and the experimental group received robotic treatment with an Amadeo robot in addition to their conventional rehabilitation sessions.

Results: Intragroup analysis identified significant improvements in the experimental group in hand ( = 0.012), arm ( = 0.018), and shoulder ( = 0.027) sensitivity, as well as in motor function (FMA-UEmotor function, = 0.028), integration of the affected limb (MAL-14amount scale, = 0.011; MAL-14How well scale, = 0.008), and perceived quality of life (SIS-16, = 0.008). The measures between the control and experimental groups showed statistically significant differences in motor performance and spontaneous use of the affected limb (MAL-14amount scale, = 0.021; MAL-14How well scale, = 0.037).

Conclusions: Intensive, high-frequency vibration with a robotic system, in combination with conventional intervention, improves the recovery of upper limb function in terms of quantity and quality of movement in patients with subacute and chronic stroke.