Examination of the effects of robot assisted rehabilitation on respiratory parameters, dyspnea and functional capacity in individuals with stroke

Okumuş, Buşra, (2024). Examination of the Effects of Robot Assisted Rehabilitation on Respiratory Parameters, Dyspnea and Functional Capacity in Individuals with Stroke. Master's Thesis, Biruni University Graduate Education Institute, Istanbul. (Advisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Buket AKINCI). It is known that there is a limitation in respiratory capacity and exercise capacity in individuals with stroke. Although it is known that upper extremity training has positive effects on respiratory capacity in individuals with stroke, there is a need for more studies examining the effects of upper extremity robot-assisted rehabilitation on respiratory capacity. Our aim; To examine the effects of upper extremity robot-assisted rehabilitation applied in addition to conventional treatment on respiratory parameters, dyspnea and functional capacity. 34 hemiplegic individuals between the ages of 18-65 participated in our study. In addition to conventional rehabilitation, individuals were randomized into two groups: upper extremity robot-assisted rehabilitation (RR) and conventional rehabilitation (CR). The groups continued conventional treatment 5 days a week, 45 minutes a day, for 6 weeks. Individuals in the robotic rehabilitation group also participated in an upper extremity robot-assisted rehabilitation program 2 days a week. Respiratory function values, respiratory muscle strength, dyspnea levels, functional capacities and mobility levels of the participants were evaluated before and after the treatment. After the treatment, improvements were achieved in respiratory muscle strength (MIP; RR, p=0.002 CR, p=0.001; MEP; RR, p=0.001 CR), functional capacity (RR, p=0.001 CR, p=0.001) and mobility (RR, p=0.019 CR, p=0.049) values in both rehabilitation groups. At the end of the study, similar positive changes were obtained in respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity and mobility in individuals with stroke, when upper extremity supported robotic rehabilitation was applied in addition to conventional rehabilitation and only the conventional rehabilitation program.