Overview
This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Robot-Assisted Tai Chi Training (RATT) versus conventional rehabilitation in improving upper limb motor function post-stroke, and to explore the neuromuscular mechanisms of RATT. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
- Robot-Assisted Tai Chi Training group: Participants will receive guided Tai Chi arm movements with robotic assistance to enhance coordination and strength.
- Conventional rehabilitation group: Participants will perform standard exercises (e.g., stretching, repetitive task practice).
Both groups will receive 60-minute sessions, administered 5 days a week, over 4 weeks. Researchers will measure improvements using clinical scales (e.g., Fugl-Meyer Assessment) and monitor safety.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosed with stroke confirmed by neuroimaging (CT/MRI).
- Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity score of 8-44.
- First-ever stroke, with unilateral hemiplegia and time since onset ≤12 months.
- Aged 40-80 years, regardless of gender.
- Voluntarily participated and provided written informed consent. Participants meeting all above criteria were enrolled.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Severe cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment score \<10).
- Poor sitting balance (\< Grade 2) or inability to maintain seated position for \>60 minutes.
- Hypertonia (modified Ashworth Scale score \>2 in affected limb).
- Significant hemiplegic shoulder pain (Visual Analogue Scale \>3).
- Severe aphasia (Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination score \<3).
- Severe visual impairment precluding robot-assisted upper limb training.
- Moderate-to-severe depression (17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale score \>17).
- Pre-existing neuromuscular disorders, active malignancies, or uncontrolled systemic diseases (cardiac, renal, hepatic).
- Concurrent participation in other clinical trials affecting study outcomes. Participants meeting any of the above criteria were excluded.