Ludic-activities-based therapeutic suitcase for rehabilitation of people with stroke

Abstract

Introduction: The rehabilitation of people who suffered a stroke depends on patient commitment, rehabilitation strategies and technologies employed. Objective: To develop a suitcase with rehabilitation activities using devices that provide functional exercises in a fun and motivating way. Method: The main motor and sensory functions lost due to the stroke were identified and a set of three boards was modeled, providing activities with adequate structure and strategies to conduct rehabilitation exercises. A pilot experiment was performed with a subject with poststroke sequelae. Results: The suitcase has three boards containing devices for exercises of proprioception, motor coordination, grasping and reeducation to decrease agnosia, to increase muscle strength and for cognitive training. Conclusion: The suitcase fulfilled its functional reeducation purpose via a playful method; it provides improvements in the ability to fit parts, differentiate colors, recognize shapes and textures, and increase the strength.