Effects of robotic glove-assisted task-oriented mirror therapy on hand motor function in sub-acute stroke patients: Randomised controlled trial

Background: The incidence of stroke has increased globally, leading to mortality and disability. Approximately 30–66% of stroke survivors are unable to regain motor functions in the affected hand throughout their lives, which significantly impacts their functionality and daily activities.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the effects of robotic glove-assisted task-oriented mirror therapy in comparison with task-oriented mirror therapy on the motor functions of the hand in sub-acute stroke.

Methods: This was a non-blinded, randomised controlled trial conducted at the National Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine (NIRM) and Athlean Physical Therapy (APT), Islamabad. A total of thirty eligible participants were assigned randomly to Groups (A) and (B) through a pre-sealed envelope. Group (A) received robotic glove-assisted task-oriented mirror therapy. Group (B) received task-oriented mirror therapy. Intervention was given 30[Formula: see text]min daily after 30[Formula: see text]min of conventional treatment, five times a week for eight weeks. Outcomes were measured using the Box and Block Test (BBT), Fugl–Meyer Assessment scale Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) and the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT).

Results: The mean age of all patients was ([Formula: see text]) years. Between-group analysis showed that the robotic glove-assisted task-oriented mirror therapy group had a significant difference in hand motor functions as compared to the task-oriented mirror therapy group, as measured by BBT, FMA-UE, and ARAT ([Formula: see text]). Within-group analysis of both groups showed a significant difference in pre- and post-treatment on all outcome measures ([Formula: see text]).

Conclusion: The study concluded that robotic glove-assisted task-oriented mirror therapy, along with conventional physical therapy, is more effective than task-oriented mirror therapy in improving hand motor functions in patients with sub-acute stroke.