Using a Soft-Robotic Glove to Support Hand and Arm Use in Daily Activities for Adults with Hand Function Limitations

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how using a supportive soft-robotic glove affects real arm and hand use during daily life for people with hand function limitations caused by trauma-related injuries or neurological conditions. This study follows up on earlier research with previous versions of the robotic glove Carbonhand to better understand its therapeutic effects. The study involves 3 to 5 participants and uses a single-case experimental design to observe changes over time. Participants will use the Carbonhand soft-robotic glove at home for six weeks during daily activities that are important to them, supporting the grip of their most affected hand. They can choose which activities and when to use the glove but are encouraged to use it at least 180 minutes per week. The study includes three phases a baseline phase without the glove, the intervention phase using the glove, and a retention phase without the glove again. Throughout the 12 to 14 weeks of the study, participants will complete about 15 home assessments spread across the three phases. These assessments include wearing activity meters on both wrists during waking hours, performing hand grip strength tests via video calls, and answering questions on hand function and well-being. Additional evaluations involve questionnaires, hand function tests, pain ratings, and interviews. The glove also collects usage data and participants keep a diary during the intervention phase. This thorough monitoring helps researchers measure actual arm activity and other outcomes related to hand use and quality of life.

Arm Use With Soft-robotic Glove