EMG Biofeedback with AMES

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The long-range goal of this project is to be able to treat effectively plegic stroke victims using a novel therapeutic regimen and robotic device called "AMES," an acronym for Assisted Movement with Enhanced Sensation. In AMES, the patient assists the motion of the robotic device using biofeedback of voluntary joint torque, while the sensation of motion is enhanced by tendon vibration. In a pre-clinical trial, we showed AMES to be effective at restoring functional movement in both upper and lower extremities in a majority of profoundly disabled chronic stroke patients (>2 yr event). At enrollment, these subjects ranked