Smart Robotic Glove Aids Movement Recovery in Paralysis

Researchers from the University of Vienna, ETH Zurich, Technical University of Munich, and Belgrade Medical Faculty have developed a smart robotic glove designed to assist individuals with hand paralysis in regaining movement and sensation. This wearable robotic system combines an exoskeleton with electrical nerve stimulation to support movement and provide sensory feedback.

A study published involving 14 patients with hand impairments due to brain and spinal cord injuries demonstrated significant improvements in finger movement, grip strength, and the ability to feel touch during tasks. Patients with neurological injuries often struggle with daily activities such as eating, dressing, and holding objects, and traditional rehabilitation methods frequently do not fully restore hand function.

The system detects pressure on the fingers and converts it into small electrical signals to stimulate nerves in the forearm, creating artificial touch feedback. The research, led by Prof.

Stanisa Raspopov, aims to restore movement and sensation without feedback from objects held in the hand. Future studies are planned to test the technology in larger patient groups for long-term rehabilitation.