Apparatus for rehabilitation of stroke patient

Abstract

A tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention is a training device for improving upper limb function in a patient with hemiplegia caused by a stroke, comprising a training table having a horizontal plane, a reflective member erected at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal plane of the training table and having at least one surface formed as a reflective surface, and a training pack provided for a trainee to perform a predetermined task with one hand on the horizontal plane of the training table, wherein the training pack each comprises training tools capable of performing at least one of motor ability recovery training, cognitive ability recovery training, sensory recovery training, and concentration recovery training.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a tool training device for improving upper limb function in stroke patients, and more specifically, to a tool training device for improving upper limb function in stroke patients in a hemiplegic state that distorts body information perceived by the brain in a direction positive for physical recovery by training using a mirror. Background Technology

[0002] Stroke (Cerebrovascular disease), one of the neuropsychiatric disorders, refers to neurological symptoms that occur when a part of the brain is damaged due to a blockage or rupture of the blood vessels supplying that area.

[0003] Stroke is synonymous with cerebrovascular disease and is commonly known as 'apoplexy'.

[0004] Stroke can be broadly divided into two types. The first refers to damage to a part of the brain that receives blood supply from a blood vessel due to a blockage. This is called cerebral infarction. The second refers to damage to a part of the brain caused by blood pooling inside the brain due to a ruptured cerebral blood vessel; this is called cerebral hemorrhage or hemorrhagic stroke.

[0005] The brain is a bodily organ responsible for various functions, and if a part of the brain dies due to a blockage or rupture of a blood vessel, the functions performed by that part are impaired.

[0006] Symptoms of a stroke include hemiplegia and hemisensory impairment caused by abnormalities in one side of the brain. Symptoms may also appear, such as speech disorders where a person cannot speak or understand others despite mental clarity, or speech disorders where accurate pronunciation is impossible due to muscle paralysis. In addition, it can lead to a variety of other symptoms, including ataxia, visual field defects, double vision, swallowing difficulties, dementia, dizziness, impaired consciousness, and headaches.

[0007] The patient's treatment and rehabilitation methods must be determined based on the exact cause of the stroke. Stroke patients generally undergo rehabilitation training for a significant period even after surgery.

[0008] Patients with stroke symptoms or those who have undergone stroke surgery must pay special attention to rehabilitation training, as this is crucial for recovering lost physical abilities and preventing complications.

[0009] Although various rehabilitation therapies have been proposed and implemented to help stroke patients recover motor, sensory, and cognitive abilities, there was still a need to propose technologies for rehabilitation exercise methods or devices that could be performed without outpatient visits while reducing the financial burden. Prior art literature

[0010] Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2490464 (January 27, 2023) The problem to be solved

[0011] One objective of the present invention is to solve the problem of the prior art, in which expensive treatment costs had to be borne to receive rehabilitation training.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to solve the problem of the prior art, which had the inconvenience of requiring a separate rehabilitation facility to be visited for rehabilitation training.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a rehabilitation training device for stroke patients that can be easily installed and used at home.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention is to prevent the occurrence of side effects that occasionally occurred in mirror therapy, which utilizes the brain's illusion phenomenon for the healthy recovery of stroke patients.

[0015] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems or objectives not mentioned may be understood from the following description. means of solving the problem

[0016] A tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention is a training device for improving upper limb function in a patient with hemiplegia caused by a stroke, comprising a training table having a horizontal plane, a reflective member erected at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal plane of the training table and having at least one surface formed as a reflective surface, and a training pack provided for a trainee to perform a predetermined task with one hand on the horizontal plane of the training table, wherein the training pack each comprises training tools capable of performing at least one of motor ability recovery training, cognitive ability recovery training, sensory recovery training, and concentration recovery training.

[0017] And, in a tool training device for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention, the reflective member is erected on the upper part of the training table such that the reflective surface is perpendicular to the horizontal plane of the training table.

[0018] Alternatively, in a tool training device for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention, the training pack comprises a first training tool including a receiving container having at least one input port formed on its outer surface and a plurality of input bodies formed so that the trainee can insert them into the receiving container through the input port.

[0019] In addition, in a tool training device for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention, the training pack includes a second training tool configured such that when at least one domino block falls, all of the domino blocks placed closer than a predetermined distance fall in succession.

[0020] Alternatively, in a tool training device for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention, the reflective member includes a control unit for adjusting the reflectivity or transparency of the reflective surface, and an operating unit for receiving an input signal for adjusting the reflectivity or transparency of the reflective surface and transmitting it to the control unit. Effects of the invention

[0021] According to the present invention, there is an advantage that rehabilitation training can be performed with simple installation and low cost.

[0022] According to the present invention, since the tool training device is configured to be compact and easy to install and perform, there is an advantage that rehabilitation training can be performed at home without visiting a separate rehabilitation training institution.

[0023] According to the present invention, there is an advantage in that side effects that could occur during the rehabilitation training process of cognitive ability, sensory ability, motor ability, etc., through a mirror can be significantly reduced.

[0024] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0025] FIG. 1 is a usage diagram illustrating the state of performing rehabilitation training with a tool training device for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 3 to 5 are drawings illustrating various training tools included in a training pack in a tool training device for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a part of the configuration of a tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments disclosed in this specification will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the following description, identical or similar components are assigned identical or similar reference numerals, and redundant descriptions thereof may be omitted. Furthermore, suffixes such as "module" or "part" for the components used do not inherently possess distinct meanings or roles. Descriptions of related prior art that may be presupposed in describing the embodiments of this specification are omitted. Additionally, the attached drawings are intended merely to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical concept disclosed in this specification is not limited by the attached drawings.

[0027] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0028] A singular expression includes a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0029] In this specification, terms such as "comprising" or "having" indicate the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and do not exclude any of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0030] The present invention discloses a tool training device (1) for improving upper limb function in stroke patients.

[0031] Stroke (cerebrovascular disease) is a neuropsychiatric disorder that occurs in the head.

[0032] Stroke refers to neurological symptoms that occur when a part of the brain is damaged due to a blockage (ischemic stroke) or rupture (hemorrhagic stroke) of the blood vessels supplying that area.

[0033] Stroke is synonymous with cerebrovascular disease and is widely known by the name 'apoplexy'.

[0034] Stroke can be broadly divided into two types. The first is when a part of the brain supplied with blood by a blood vessel is damaged due to the blockage of the vessel. This condition is called cerebral infarction, and is also referred to as ischemic stroke or infarct stroke.

[0035] The second is when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures, causing blood to accumulate and damage that part of the brain. This is also known as cerebral hemorrhage or hemorrhagic stroke.

[0036] The brain is responsible for countless diverse functions. If a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or ruptures, causing a part of the brain to die, the functions handled by that part will be impaired, which leads to the symptoms of a stroke.

[0037] The symptoms of a stroke are very diverse. However, common symptoms include hemiplegia, hemisensory impairment, speech disorders, pronunciation disorders, ataxia, visual field and vision impairment, diplopia, dysphagia, dementia, dizziness, impaired consciousness, a vegetative state, and headache.

[0038] Hemiplegia is a condition in which motor nerves that move the arms and legs descend from the cerebrum and cross over at the lower part of the brainstem; if there is an abnormality in one side of the brain, the opposite side is usually paralyzed.

[0039] Hemisensory impairment is a condition in which sensory nerves, like motor nerves, cross and connect within the body, causing sensory abnormalities in the face, arms, and legs on the opposite side of the brain; it often occurs alongside symptoms of hemiplegia.

[0040] A speech disorder refers to a condition in which a person suddenly has difficulty speaking or understanding others, despite being mentally alert.

[0041] Speech disorders, also known as dysarthria, refer to cases where a person can speak or understand speech but cannot pronounce words accurately due to paralysis of the muscles of the tongue, throat, and lips. Speech disorders can also manifest as an inability to swallow food.

[0042] Ataxia refers to a condition in which the hands and feet are not controlled as intended, even though there is no paralysis.

[0043] Visual field and vision impairment refer to the phenomenon where one eye is blind or a corner of the field of vision becomes dark.

[0044] Double vision refers to the phenomenon where objects do not appear clearly but overlap, while dysphagia refers to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing food, frequent choking, or drooling due to the inability to swallow saliva.

[0045] Stroke patients must continue to perform rehabilitation training even after detection and treatment.

[0046] Through rehabilitation training, lost motor and sensory abilities must be gradually restored, and potential complications must also be prevented.

[0047] The present invention discloses a tool training device for improving upper limb function in such stroke patients.

[0048] A tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention utilizes a method in which the patient performs a series of tasks while looking at an image reflected in a mirror, thereby causing the patient's brain to recognize a part of the body where muscle strength or sensation has been lost as intended.

[0049] FIG. 1 is a usage state diagram illustrating a state of performing rehabilitation training with a tool training device (1) for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a tool training device (1) for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, a tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a training table (10), a reflective member (30), and a training pack (100).

[0051] The training table (10) is a desk with a horizontal plane and has enough width to perform a predetermined training mission.

[0052] A dedicated chair (12) may be provided on the training table. The dedicated chair (12) may be custom-made to fit the patient's physical characteristics, allowing the patient to use the training table (10) without discomfort.

[0053] Additionally, the dedicated chair (12) may be further equipped with sensors capable of detecting physical information such as the patient's heart rate and body temperature. The dedicated chair (12) may be equipped to immediately detect physical abnormalities that may occur while the seated patient is performing predetermined tool training and to notify the training assistant of such abnormalities.

[0054] The reflective member (30) is placed on a horizontal plane of the training table (10). In one embodiment of the present invention, it may be erected perpendicular to the upper surface of the training table (10). This is exemplary, and depending on the embodiment to which the present invention is applied, the reflective member (30) may be erected at a predetermined angle to the upper surface of the training table (10).

[0055] The reflective member (30) includes a reflective surface (32) in which at least one side is made of a mirror.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 1, the patient positions the reflective member (30) in front, looks at the reflective surface (32), and performs a predetermined tool training based on the view observed through the reflective surface (32).

[0057] The reflective member (30) can be placed in front of the trainee, and the side with lost ability is divided into a hidden area (B), and the healthy side is divided into an active area (A) to which the reflective surface (32) faces.

[0058] The training pack (100) is equipped to allow a trainee to perform a predetermined task with one hand on a horizontal plane of a training table (10).

[0059] The training pack (100) may be composed of multiple training tools. For example, it may include training tools with various purposes, such as a training tool specialized for physical ability recovery training, a training tool specialized for cognitive ability recovery training, a training tool specialized for sensory recovery training, and a training tool specialized for concentration recovery training.

[0060] FIGS. 3 to 5 are drawings illustrating various training tools included in a training pack (100) in a tool training device (1) for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the training pack (100) may consist of multiple training tools designed for different purposes.

[0062] Figure 3 is intended to illustrate the first training tool (110).

[0063] The first training tool (110) may include a receiving container (112) having at least one input port (114) formed on its outer surface, and a plurality of input bodies (113) that a trainee can put into the receiving container (112) through the input port (114).

[0064] Multiple inputs (113) may each be pieces engraved with numbers or predetermined symbols, etc.

[0065] Alternatively, an input body (113) of a size that can be inserted through the input port (114) and an input body (113) that cannot be inserted through the input port (114) may be mixed together and prepared.

[0066] The patient is trained to select an input (113) that meets the conditions presented by the assistant, and to insert it into a receiving container (112) through the input port (114).

[0067] The patient performs all of this process while looking through the reflective surface (32).

[0068] FIG. 4 is for illustrating a second training tool (120). The second training tool (120) may be composed of multiple domino blocks (122). The domino blocks (122) are a training tool in which, when at least one falls, all adjacent domino blocks (122) placed closer than a predetermined distance fall in succession.

[0069] Therefore, the trainee can simultaneously perform various trainings such as concentration, motor skills, and sensory skills by arranging domino blocks (122) in a series of paths according to the guidance of an assistant, and by going through trial and error in the process of arranging and reducing the trial and error.

[0070] This is also performed by the trainee observing the information reflected through the reflective surface (32).

[0071] FIG. 5 is for illustrating a third training tool (130). The third training tool (130) includes a task board (132) with a groove of a predetermined shape engraved thereon, a difficulty adjustment block (134) that is fitted into the groove of the task board (132) and forms a groove of another shape, and a tactile block (136) that has a predetermined shape and is fitted into a groove of a specific shape formed through the task board (132) or the difficulty adjustment block (134).

[0072] The third training tool (130) allows the trainee to directly touch and feel objects of various shapes or hardness with their hands, find a block of a shape presented by an assistant, and fill a corresponding groove with a block of a suitable shape.

[0073] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a part of the configuration of a tool training device (1) for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] As illustrated in FIG. 6, a tool training device (1) for improving upper limb function of a stroke patient according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include a storage unit (40), a control unit (50), an operation unit (60), and a display unit (70).

[0075] The storage unit (40) is a device that stores information about the trainee and records and stores the trainee's training progress.

[0076] The control unit (50) can adjust the angle formed by the reflective surface (32) of the reflective member (30) with the training table (10), and can adjust the transparency and / or reflectivity of the reflective surface (32).

[0077] The control unit (50) can adjust the reflective surface (32) of the reflective member (30) to be transparent or opaque when a predetermined condition is detected, and can also control the reflective surface (32) to maintain its mirror function.

[0078] These functions of the control unit (50) may be controlled through the operation unit (60), and changes in transparency and reflectivity of the reflective surface (32) controlled through the control unit (50) may be provided to an assistant through a separate display unit (70).

[0079] This is intended to protect the patient by gradually changing the reflective surface (32) to transparent or opaque in the event that the patient, who was concentrating on training while looking at the mirror, does not exhibit the intended cognitive ability of the brain or an abnormality occurs in the cognitive ability of the brain.

[0080] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above together with the drawings. These are exemplary and the present invention is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments and the contents of the drawings.

[0081] It is obvious to those skilled in the art that modifications to the present invention may be made within the scope of the disclosed technical concept. The described embodiments should be regarded as part of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention should not be determined solely by the described embodiments.

[0082] The scope of the present invention should be determined by the technical concept described in the claims. Furthermore, even if the operation or effect according to the configuration is not explicitly described while describing the embodiments of the present invention, it is obvious that the operation or effect predictable by said configuration should also be recognized as the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0083] 1: Tool training device 10: Training table 12: Dedicated chair 30: Reflective member 32: Reflective surface 40: Storage unit 50: Control unit 60: Control panel 70: Display panel 100: Training Pack 110: Training Tool 1 112: Receiving container 113: Input 114: Input 120: Training Tool No. 2 122: Domino Blocks 130: Training Tool 3 132: Task Board 134: Difficulty Adjustment Block 136: Tactile Block A: Active area B: Hidden area

Claims

Claim 1 A training device for improving upper limb function in a patient with hemiplegia caused by a stroke, comprising: a training table having a horizontal plane; a reflective member erected at a predetermined angle with respect to the horizontal plane of the training table and having at least one surface formed as a reflective surface; a training pack provided for a trainee to perform a predetermined task with one hand on the horizontal plane of the training table; a control unit for gradually adjusting the reflectivity and transparency of the reflective surface; an operating unit for receiving an input signal for adjusting the reflectivity and transparency of the reflective surface and transmitting it to the control unit; and a display unit for displaying information on changes in the reflectivity and transparency of the reflective surface to an assistant; wherein the training pack comprises a plurality of different training tools, each configured to perform at least one of motor ability recovery training, cognitive ability recovery training, sensory recovery training, and concentration recovery training. Claim 2 A tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient, wherein, in claim 1, the reflective member is erected on the upper part of the training table such that the reflective surface is perpendicular to the horizontal plane of the training table. Claim 3 A tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient, wherein the training pack comprises a first training tool including a receiving container having at least one input opening formed on an outer surface and a plurality of input bodies formed so that the trainee can insert them into the receiving container through the input opening. Claim 4 A tool training device for improving upper limb function in a stroke patient, wherein the training pack comprises a second training tool configured such that when at least one domino block falls, all of the domino blocks placed closer than a predetermined distance fall in succession. Claim 5 delete

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