The new Able-X for upper body rehabilitation LOOK!

At ARNI, we are have just been introduced to the  Able-X and we think it has a certain valuable place in the stroke survivor's armoury of upper body rehabilitation strategies. It is important that it is combined with lots of task-related activities to tackle the grasp and release mechanisms of the fingers. 

Able-X is designed to help stroke survivors regain their arm function, through ‘plasticity’ based rehabilitation. 

Able-X is a computer-based rehabilitation tool with five fun exercise games specially designed by scientists and physio-therapists to stimulate and retrain the brain. The system helps restore movement and coordination that has been lost through brain injury such as stroke.

 Able-X is designed for community and home rehabilitation. The system consists of a ‘handlebar with an ‘air mouse’ at one end, which controls the cursor on screen. Used with both hands, the bilateral system allows the good arm to guide and retrain the arm affected by stroke or other brain injury. 

The games can be played standing or sitting.
 The exercises are designed in increasing levels of difficulty requiring greater physical movement, increasing dexterity and concentration.
 
How does it work?
Able-X builds on research that shows new neurological pathways can be created by a combination of repetitive exercise linked to brain stimulation.


It addresses two critical components in rehabilitation:

• Compliance through a fun game format that provides feedback to the user
• A combination of repetitive exercise and active brain engagement.

Results and benefits
Clinical trials by New Zealand’s premier medical school at Otago University showed a significant improvement in upper limb functioning.
 Clinical and observed benefits include:
• Improved arm movement
• Improved arm strength
• Better ability to concentrate
• Improved motivation
• Improved balance

 

If you would like to know more, please visit the Able-X website for more information