Possibilities of Application of Armeo Devices in Treatment of Dyspraxia and Graphomotor Dysgraphia

Abstract

Armeo (Hocoma) device is projected to help persons with hemiparesis, so they can use remained neuromuscular control for practicing and strengthen movements of arm and function of catching. After experienced stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other neurological or muscular damages, large numbers of patients still do not have neuromuscular control in hemiparetic extremity. Because of the weakness of muscles and inability to conquer with gravity, usage of arm is disabled. Armeo neutralizes weight of arm, enable usage of remaining control in both arms and hands by following exercises which represent real life situations in 3D simulations. Experience of success during (re)habilitation encourages patients to put more effort, and follow instructions of therapists. Software accepts trajectory of patient’s arm and wrist movement and with that enables therapists to evaluate patient’s pattern of coordination and improvement during treatment. Device is easily adaptable to patient’s needs and it is possible to be used also without help of therapist. Armeo speeds up re(habilitation) by combining adaptable support for arm with grabber which is very sensitive and stimulates everyday activities. Data’s for every patient can be electronically archived, which enables evaluation and follow up of improvements in treatment. Application of Aremo in situations with head injuries described till now can be widen, for the first time by our opinion, on application of Armeo in habilitation and early stimulant treatment in children with graphomotor dysgraphia, dyspraxia, cerebral paralysis (CP), autism and intellectual disorders, with respect to hypotonic muscular hand and inadequate coordination. By seasonable application of this device in treatment of these children, their hand and arm motoric can be improved, which would definitely affect quality of their everyday activities and ability to learn and carry out school tasks.