Novel Technologies in Upper Extremity Rehabilitation

Structured and sufficient training is a key factor for successful fitting of an upper limb prosthesis. This is especially true for more advanced myoelectric control strategies, or for individuals with comorbidities that require additional treatment. With advances in technology, not only have the control strategies become more complex, but also possibilities for more tailored rehabilitation have increased. Novel rehabilitation technologies include virtual and augmented reality systems, as well as training systems relying on computers and smartphone apps. These technologies can be used within the clinical setting, enable telerehabilitation, and/or can support unsupervised home training. While most experts agree that novel rehabilitation technologies can be a good supplement for conventional therapy, one of the greatest challenges is to transfer the progress achieved in the technology-assisted realm into real-world situations and actual prosthetic function.