Abstract
Stochastic resonance (SR) is a novel technology that has shown immediate improvement in sensation when applied to the skin. The addition of SR to typical interventions can enhance neurorehabilitation in OT among stroke survivors.
Primary Author and Speaker: Sierra Knott
Additional Authors and Speakers: Virginia W. Chu
Contributing Authors: Olivier Rolin, Jonathon Jacobs
The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility of wearing an stochastic resonance (SR) device during waking hours for a week among stroke survivors. Sensorimotor performance changes after wearing the SR device were also explored. The information gained from this study will help advance neurorehabilitation in occupational therapy. The study took place over 2 weeks, where 11 participants (average age 60.3 years, 9 male, >6 months post stroke) completed 3 assessment visits (baseline, pretest, posttest). The Nine Hole Peg Test (NHPT) and Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Test (SW) were completed twice (sham vs SR, randomized) during each visit. Participants were blinded to the order of the conditions. The participants served as their own control (week 1 without SR). During week 2, participants were instructed to wear the device for all waking hours at 60% or 90% of their detection threshold. The participants’ baseline scores were compared to the posttest scores. 8 out of 11 participants completed the study. All participants who completed the study stated that they wore the device at home for a week without experiencing discomfort. 7 out of 8 participants stated that they would wear a similar device with a slimmer design. 5 participants stated that they noticed a difference with fine motor movements while engaging in daily activities. NHPT times improved from 24.1s to 20.4s (p = 0.0002) after using SR for one week. However, SW scores did not change significantly in the pads of the thumb (p = 0.13) and index finger (p=0.59) after using SR for one week. SR is an inexpensive technology that is feasible to wear during the day without discomfort. There is preliminary evidence showing improved fine motor movement after wearing the device for 1 week. However, this does not seem to stem from improved sensation in the thumb and index fingers. This technology could be used in the future to enhance neurorehabilitation in occupational therapy among stroke survivors.
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