recoveriX – A Brain-Computer Interface for stroke rehabilitation
recoveriX is the first rehabilitation system for stroke patients that pairs mental activities with motor functions. The brain receives visual and tactile feedback in real-time, and that is what makes rehabilitation so effective. For example, if a stroke patient imagines a hand movement while receiving visual feedback through a virtual avatar, and tactile feedback through electrical muscle stimulation at the same time, then these patients might regain the ability to grasp again.
The activation of both sensory and motor functions is caused by mirror neurons. This stimulates brain plasticity and the brain will be supported in learning new ways to move the affected limbs again. The unique approach of recoveriX leads to a much higher level of motivation for the patient and rehabilitation is most effective. Repeated training increases the healing of the brain and leads to faster recovery from stroke-caused impairment.
Marc Sebastian, G.TEC MEDICAL ENGINEERING