The SoftPro Wearable System for Grasp Compensation in Stroke Patients

Abstract

This extended abstract presents a wearable system for assistance that is a combination of different technologies including sensing, haptics, orthotics and robotics. The result is a device that, by compensating for force deficiencies, helps lifting the forearm and thanks to a robotic supernumerary finger improves the grasping ability of an impaired hand. A pilot study involving three post-stroke patients was conducted to test the effectiveness of the device to assist in performing activities of daily living (ADLs), confirming its usefulness.