Novel Therapeutic Rehabilitation Device-A Placebo Approach in Treating Stroke and Tremor Disorders

– Stroke is a significant health issue, causing disabilities that impact millions worldwide. Rehabilitation is crucial for restoring motor functions, but traditional therapy methods are often expensive and inaccessible, especially in low-resource settings. This project proposes a cost-effective Smart Glove for stroke rehabilitation, designed to assist patients in regaining hand mobility through guided exercises. The glove utilizes a Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller and MG995 servo motors, programmed with MicroPython, to perform controlled flexion and extension of fingers. The system is portable, affordable, and designed for repetitive therapeutic movements, which are essential for neural recovery. A mathematical model based on simple harmonic motion (SHM) and restorative force principles is employed to optimize motion control. Initial trials show promising results, with the glove achieving 92% accuracy in movement replication and a 30% improvement in motor function among test subjects over six weeks. Additionally, the device’s cost is approximately 70% lower than conventional rehabilitation devices, making it an accessible solution for broader adoption. The Smart Glove demonstrates significant potential to enhance stroke recovery, bridging the gap between high- quality rehabilitation and affordability. Future enhancements, including AI integration, aim to provide personalized therapy, ensuring faster and more effective recovery outcomes.