Development of an Innovative Telerehabilitation System to Improve Handgrip Strength

Abstract

Handgrip strength is an essential function of the hand to perform day-to-day tasks. People lose grip strength due to various factors such as aging, diseases, and other medical conditions. According to neuroplastic principles, grip strength can be improved using goal-oriented tasks or exercises repeatedly and consistently. People often fail to adhere to meaningless repeated movements, including grip strength exercises. Studies have shown that game-based rehabilitation has improved exercise compliance and functional outcomes. This article explains the design and development of an affordable smartphone-based telerehabilitation system that include an innovatively designed grip strength device (eGripper) and a phone application to play games.