What the Research is Showing

Myomo studies are focused on providing a tool that supports the evidence based practice model of therapy delivery.

Published reports suggest that neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to rewire and build neural pathways in response to learning and experience) plays an important role in motor recovery. (Nudo, R.J., et al. Science 1996;272:1791-94) Clinical studies also show that task-based repetitive training may facilitate neural plasticity with concomitant improved motor abilities and enhanced functional performance. (Lipert J. et al. Stroke 2000;31:1210-6.)

Our collaboration with researchers and medical experts affiliated with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston Medical Center, and Braintree Rehabilitation Hospital has focused on utilizing the Myomo device to encourage patient-driven, goal-oriented, repetitive exercise based on validated research principals of the motor control theory.

Research studies at MIT and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital showed significant gains in motor control with severely impaired chronic stroke patients (1.5-10 years post CVA) The size of improvement found in the upper extremity component of the Fugl Meyer scale represented a 23% increase in the severely impaired patient sample (from a mean of 15.5 before treatment to a mean of 19 at the end of treatment).

Stein J., Narendran K., McBean J., Krebs K., Hughes, R. Electromyography-Controlled Exoskeletal Upper-Limb-Powered Orthosis for Exercise Training after Stroke. Am. J. Phys. Med. Rehabil. Vol. 86. No. 4. 2007

Based on these results, clinical experts have suggested that the Myomo device may serve as a Therapy Gateway for severe chronic patients who are so impaired that they currently are ineligible for other upper extremity stroke treatments.

Note: Federal (USA) law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician or physical therapist.

Note: The Myomo e100 NeuroRobotic System is intended for clinical use by patients with their treating medical professional. The device has not been shown to be safe or effective as a functional aid for use in the home.