Brain-computer interface for stroke rehabilitation with clinical studies

Abstract

Stroke is the leading cause of severe disabilities in the developed world. Each year, there are around 15 million new stroke cases worldwide. About 30% of stroke survivors need various forms of rehabilitation. Among these, upper limb weakness and loss of hand function are among the most devastating types of disabilities. Despite optimal acute medical treatment and modern rehabilitation, 45% of the patients do not achieve complete recovery of their bodily functions. In addition, 85% to 90% of stroke survivors with upper limb impairment do not regain full functional use of their upper extremities. Limitations in current physiotherapy and occupational therapy techniques include: (i) difficulties in rehabilitation for the severely paralyzed arm and hand which are often treated with passive modalities, (ii) difficulties in achieving intensive rehabilitation and high repetitions in those with moderate to severe upper extremity paralysis, (iii) problems in motivating and sustaining patient interest in repetitive exercises, (iv) therapy is often perceived to be boring due to lack of immediate biofeedback.