A Wearable Device Employing Biomedical Sensors for Advanced Therapeutics: Enhancing Stroke Rehabilitation

Abstract

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide. The long-term effects of a stroke depend on the location and size of the affected brain area, resulting in diverse disabilities and experiences for survivors. More than 70% of people experiencing stroke suffer upper-limb dysfunction, which can significantly limit independence in daily life. The growing strain on national healthcare resources, coupled with the rising demand for personalised, home-based rehabilitation, along with increased familiarity with digital technologies, has set the stage for developing an advanced therapeutics system consisting of a wearable solution aimed at complementing current stroke rehabilitation to enhance recovery outcomes. Through a user-centred approach, supported by primary and secondary research, this study has developed an advanced prototype integrating electromyography smart sensors, functional electrical stimulation, and virtual reality technologies in a closed-loop system that is capable of supporting personalised recovery journeys. The outcome is a more engaging and accessible rehabilitation experience, designed and evaluated through the participation of stroke survivors. This paper presents the design of the therapeutic platform, feedback from stroke survivors, and considerations regarding the integration of the proposed technology across the stroke pathway, from early days in a hospital to later stage rehabilitation in the community.