Robotics for Neurorehabilitation: Current State and Future Challenges

Currently in neurorehabilitation robotic devices are mostly applied for rehabilitation of the motor functions of the lower and upper extremities. Even if in recent research autonomous and humanoid robots are being used for cognitive rehabilitation robot medicated therapy predominately supports relearning of motor functions for subjects suffering from stroke, spinal cord injury or other neurological conditions. This review paper provides a summary of the main features and applied methods, and presents some examples to outline the large diversity of currently used devices. Future challenges for rehabilitation robotics to reach full clinical acceptance are clear answers regarding the optimal dosage of movement therapy and right inclusion/exclusion criteria for specific treatments.