For many people recovering from a stroke, regaining movement and function in the affected arm and hand can be an important part of rehabilitation.

At ARC, occupational therapy can play a key role in supporting this process, helping people work towards greater independence and improved participation in everyday activities.

For ARC client Shakat, his rehabilitation at our Artarmon clinic has focused on maintaining and improving the function of his affected upper limb, with a combination of targeted therapy, repetitive practice and technology-assisted rehabilitation.

Working towards better hand and arm function

Following a stroke, changes in strength, movement, sensation and muscle tone can affect how someone uses their arm and hand.

These changes can make everyday tasks more challenging, from reaching for an object or opening a container to getting dressed, eating or using a phone.

For Shakat, occupational therapy sessions are focused on helping him maintain and build his active range of movement, strength and ability to engage his affected arm in functional activities.

An important part of his rehabilitation has also been working with the Amadeo robotic hand therapy device, which is designed to provide targeted, repetitive training for the fingers and hand.

How robotic technology can support rehabilitation

The Amadeo is one of the technologies available to support rehabilitation at ARC. It allows therapists to deliver repetitive, controlled movements while providing sensory feedback and encouraging engagement of the affected hand.

For Shakat, the device is being incorporated into his therapy to:

• provide sensory feedback to the affected hand
• encourage movement and active engagement
• support the management of increased muscle tone and spasticity
• provide repetitive, targeted practice of hand and finger movements

Repetition is an important part of neurological rehabilitation. By practising specific movements regularly, people can work towards improving their ability to perform those movements and incorporate their affected limb into everyday activities.

Technology such as the Amadeo can complement hands-on therapy and functional activities, giving therapists another tool to tailor rehabilitation to an individual’s goals and abilities.

Rehabilitation that extends beyond the clinic

While technology can be an important part of therapy, successful rehabilitation is about much more than the equipment used.

Shakat’s sessions combine technology-assisted therapy with exercises and activities designed around his movement, strength and functional goals.

Just as importantly, his ongoing commitment to rehabilitation has become part of his weekly routine.

Coming to ARC provides an opportunity to get out of the house, work closely with his therapists and continue practising the skills that matter to him.

This consistency and engagement are an important part of making rehabilitation meaningful and goal-focused.

Celebrating progress, one step at a time

Stroke recovery is different for everyone. Progress can take time, and the goals of rehabilitation can change as a person’s abilities develop.

For Shakat, his continued commitment and positive attitude are helping him stay engaged in the rehabilitation process and keep working towards his goals. We’re proud to support him along the way and love seeing his determination continue to shine through.

Supporting upper limb rehabilitation after stroke

If you or someone you know is living with the effects of stroke and would like to explore how occupational therapy and technology-assisted rehabilitation could support recovery, contact the team at ARC can help develop a rehabilitation program based around individual goals, abilities and needs.