Hand Rehabilitation Device with Dynamometer and Tactile Stimulators

Abstract

Hand injuries are impaired motor functions that can significantly hinder an individual’s quality of life, and their daily activities are affected. The rehabilitation process is often lengthy requiring consistent and targeted therapy to restore strength and dexterity. This paper proposes a portable battery-operated hand rehabilitation device which provides effective and efficient rehabilitation in a home setting. The device is integrated into a wearable sleeve and incorporates diagnostic; therapeutic and safety functionalities aimed at promoting the recovery of hand strength and functionality. The device utilizes a combination of tactile stimulators and a hand dynamometer to measure the patient's hand strength. It features a feedback loop that determines the level of force generated by the injured hand compared to the healthy hand using a customizable reference based on hand dominance. For right-handed individuals the device sets the right hand as 15% stronger than the left and vice versa for left-handed users with ambidextrous settings available to tailor therapy. By continuously monitoring progress, the device ensures that the injured hand reaches the strength levels of the healthy hand for complete rehabilitation. A Peltier module system provides thermal therapy that enhances muscle relaxation and blood circulation through controlled heating and cooling. The safety mechanism is supported by a microcontroller, a Zener diode for over-voltage protection and an alarm system to prevent misuse. The device is powered by an AC source with a regulated battery backup to ensure uninterrupted operation. This technology offers a cost-effective, user-friendly, and adaptable approach to hand therapy, reducing the dependency on in-clinic sessions and enabling patients to regain hand strength in a more personalized and flexible manner.