Developing a haptic device system for upper-limb and cognitive rehabilitation: An electromyographic analysis

We have developed a practical rehabilitation system using a haptic device to realistically reproduce various sensations. This system can be applied to develop effective rehabilitation techniques, to motivate clients by arousing their interest, and to quantitatively verify therapeutic results. The present study utilized evaluations of the upper limbs and trunk in 80 subjects, using basic custom-made software. As a result, ''wave-tracing" was developed as a promising test. Electromyographic tests were utilized to examine effects in 3 subjects. This system appears suitable for quantitative evaluation and training for balance in a sitting position, trunk motion, and control of the proximal upper limb.