Evaluation of finger strength and spasticity in hemiplegic patients using hand-finger robotic device: A validity and reliability study

Abstract

We aimed to investigate the validity, reliability, and clinical relevance of Amadeo hand-finger robotic rehabilitation system measurements for evaluating spasticity and strength in hemiplegic patients. In total, 161 participants (107 hemiplegic patients and 54 sex- and age-matched healthy controls) were included in this study. Spasticity was evaluated using the Modified Ashworth Scale, hand motor functions were evaluated using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment Hand Subscale, and hand grip and pinch strength were evaluated using the Jamar hand grip and pinch dynamometer. The Amadeo (Tyromotion) hand-finger robotic rehabilitation system was used to evaluate finger spasticity and strength of the participants. A statistically significant difference was found between the median values of the Modified Ashworth Scale (both clinical and robotic evaluation results) and the mean values of hand flexor and extensor strength measured with the robotic device in patients compared to healthy subjects (P < .01). Statistically, excellent agreement was obtained between the clinical and robotic test-retest results of the scale (P < .01) (intra-class correlation coefficient, ICC = .98–.99; ICC = .98–.99, respectively). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the clinical and robotic device results of the Modified Ashworth Scale (r = .72; P < .01). There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the hand strength values measured with the robotic device, Jamar grip, pinch, and Fugl-Meyer Assessment Hand Subscale scores (P < .01) in the patient group. Hand finger spasticity and strength measurements of the Amadeo hand-finger robotic rehabilitation system were valid, reliable, and clinically correlated in stroke patients.