science

Scientific background

Recent research indicates that targeted hand function training enhances neuroplastic changes in the brain. (Neuroplasticity: neuro – refers to brain, plasticity – ability to undergo and retain a change).

The ScIENCE OF NEUROPLASTICITY

Neuroplasticity

The ability of the brain and spinal cord to change.

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Study

In a recent Science Friday show (aired by NPR in the USA on the 3rd of August 2018) they highlighted two captivating real-life stories. First, a boy who lost 1/6th of his brain, and has learned to live with it beyond and against everyone’s expectations. Second, a healthy human with two functioning arms, to whom a bionic arm (third arm) was attached at their neck, and connected to their brain using neural links (nerves) normally not used for hand-related activities. A total of 14 individuals participated in this study, and all of them were able to perform a two handed task (with their two healthy hands), while the bionic arm was able to hold a bottle

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CONCEPT

Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain and spinal cord to change. At one time just a theoretical concept, it is now proven that it has a huge impact in individuals with brain trauma or stroke. Scientists have shown the impact of this phenomenon in both animals and humans. There are a number of fascinating real-life stories that illustrate the concept of neuroplasticity.

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STORY

Watch the story of a young girl who lives an independent life even though half of her brain has been removed.

Research

Scientific Presentations

Hand function study using IRegained hand function device

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Muscle function and functional abilities improved as a result of the hand training program

Pepe, A., Vasiliu, D., Vollebregt, B., Jain, A., Reinikka, K., Lawrence-Dewar, J., Johnson, VBK. Evaluation of a novel hand training device and program on muscle pattern activity following stroke, World Stroke Congress, Montreal, 2018.

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Patients felt their overall abilities improved as a result of participating in the study

Vollebregt, B., Reinikka, K., Vasiliu, D., Pepe, AM., Jain, A., Lawrence-Dewar, JM., Johnson, VBK. The Impact of a Hand Training Programme in Chronic Stroke Survivors: A Qualitative Analysis of a Community Based Program, Northern Constellations Conference, Thunder Bay, 2018.

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Patients who participated in the study improved in their ability to perform functional tasks such as cutting a steak or using a telephone

Vollebregt, B., Vasiliu, D., Pepe, AM., Vaclav, M., Jain, A., Lawrence-Dewar, JM., Reinikka, K., Johnson, VBK. Functional Changes Secondary to A 6-Week Hand Training Program Using a Novel Concept Rehabilitation Device, American Society of Neuro Rehabilitation, Annual Meeting, Baltimore, 2017

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Muscle function improved in stroke patients as a result of hand function training

Pepe, A., Vasiliu, D., Vollebregt, B., Jain, A., Reinikka, K., Lawrence-Dewar, J., Johnson, VBK. Changes in Muscle Activity Secondary to a Six-Week Hand Training Program Using a Novel Concept Rehabilitation Device, Society of Neuroscience Annual Meeting, Washington DC, 2017.

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Patients who participated in the study, reported improvement in hand function

Coccimiglio, G., Vasiliu, D., Pepe, AM., Jain, A., Lawrence-Dewar, JM., Reinikka, K., Johnson, VBK. Subjective Changes Secondary to A Six-Week Hand Training Program Using a Novel Concept Rehabilitation Device, Northern Health Research Conference, Thunder Bay, 2017.