"The patient-controlled aspect of the Myomo device is unique and potentially very motivating for stroke patients who must work hard to recover. When a patient can attempt movement, and see that they themselves can make their own arm move, their attention and focus is so great that they have already made a huge leap forward. Directing attention to the affected limb also holds tremendous potential for stroke patients who may suffer from "neglect," a common stroke syndrome where a patient may behave as through one whole side, including his or her body, does not exist."

—Paul Petrone, OT Practice Leader, Stroke Program Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, and co-investigator of the Myomo inpatient pilot stroke study

"We are excited about the Myomo technology since its unique combination of EMG control and portable robotics may improve functional upper extremity motor recovery and function after a neurologic injury. By providing a tool for therapists to actively engage patients in high dosage, repetitive, meaningful tasks, the Myomo device holds great potential in helping neurologically impaired patients achieve better function."

—Dan Parkinson, PT Director of Clinical Services, Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital, Braintree, MA. and site investigator of the Myomo Functional Task Study

The Myomo device provides an opportunity for patients to be able to become more independent. The sophistication of its electronics picks up early muscle movements and allows patients to activate muscles to become more functional faster. From a clinical perspective, it is compact and relatively easy to use, eliminating the costs and complexity associated with traditional equipment."

—Steve R. Williams, M.D., Chief and Chairman, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Boston Medical Center,Boston, MA

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myomo for Medical Professionals -- Indications and Contraindications

The Myomo® mPower 1000 is a myoelectric limb orthosis used as an assistive device in the home and to facilitate therapy during rehabilitation.  Observe the following indications and contraindications for using the Myomo mPower 1000.

Indications

The Myomo mPower 1000 is indicated for use by patients to facilitate the following:

  • Rehabilitation by muscle re-education
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Maintain or increase range of motion

Contraindications

The Myomo mPower 1000 should not be used by patients with any of the following conditions:

  • Shoulder dislocation or patients who cannot safely support the weight of their arms plus 3 lbs(1.36 kg) (the weight of the device)
  • Unable to safely bear a torque of 14 Newton Meters (Nm) or less on their elbow
  • Recent history of muscle spasms
  • Rigid contracture in the upper arm
  • Elbow flexor or extensor (biceps or triceps, respectively) that is greater than 3 on the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) for spastic hypertonia, which may impair passive motion
  • Passive range of motion (PROM) not greater than zero degrees of extension

If, at any time during the use of this device, the patient notices any of the following, he or she should immediately discontinue use and seek guidance from his or her physician or therapist:

  • Persistent redness, swelling, or skin breakdown (bleeding, chafing, etc.) in the region around the sensors or in the regions around the edge of the device
  • Rashes on the arm
  • Shoulder pain correlated with wearing the Myomo e100 NeuroRobotic System
  • Frequent uncontrolled and unintentional movement

Warnings

The following warnings apply to using the Myomo mPower 1000:

  • Standard therapy precautions should be taken when using the device on a patient with shoulder subluxation.
  • The Myomo mPower 1000 is a prescription device and should initially only be used under direct clinical supervision.
  • When prescribing exercises that use the Myomo device, the standard therapeutic judgment in regards to shoulder strength and stability should be used to pick appropriate exercises. Use of this device on patients without consideration of the stability and strength of the patient's shoulder may cause shoulder pain or discomfort.
  • When using the device in shoulder positions where it is possible for the patient to hit him or herself, use caution.
  • Therapy should be discontinued immediately if device torque does not match patient's desired motion.
  • Repairs should be made only by authorized personnel or by the manufacturer. Any attempt to open or repair control unit or brace will void the warranty.
  • The Myomo mPower 1000 should only be operated in temperatures ranging from 32°F to 104°F (0°C to 40°C).
  • DO NOT submerge device in liquid. The device may be cleaned using a soft cloth lightly dampened with Isopropyl Alcohol or with a sanitary wipe only. The pads are machine washable, in cold water. Air dry after washing.
  • Allow for adequate ventilation of the device. If placed into a gas-tight container, collection of battery fumes may cause explosion.
  • Ship the Myomo mPower 1000, postage prepaid, to the Myomo™ Service Center for proper disposal or recycling. Please enclose a note indicating that the system is being returned for disposal or recycling.
  • The control unit contains a NiMH battery pack that MUST NOT be incinerated.
  • DO NOT expose the device or battery to flame or excessive heat; personal injury may occur.
  • The Myomo mPower 1000 is not suitable for use in the presence of flammable anaesthetic mixtures with air, or flammable anaesthetic mixtures with oxygen or nitrous oxide.
  • Tight straps may restrict the patient's circulation. Therefore, always check that the straps are not too tight throughout a patient's range of motion.