Rehabilitation assisted by Space technology—A SAHC approach in immobilized patients—A case of stroke

• DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1024389
• Publication Date: 2023-01-18T11:49:15Z
• Authors: Chrysoula Kourtid...; Christos Frantzidis; Ilias Machairas; Christos Giantsios; Emmanouil Dermitz...; Nikolaos Kantouris; Evdokimos Konstan...; Panagiotis Bamidis; Joan Vernikos
• Keywords: Stroke

Introduction: The idea behind the presentation of this case relates to utilizing space technology in earth applications with mutual benefit for both patients confined bed and astronauts. Deconditioning progressiveness skeletal muscle loss absence adequate gravity stimulus have been physiological concern. A robust countermeasure disuse is still a challenge immobilized astronauts long duration missions. Researchers medicine field concluded that artificial (AG) produced by short-radius centrifugation on passive movement therapy device, combined exercise, has multi-system as it re-introduces an acceleration load. Methods: short-arm human centrifuge (SAHC) alone or exercise was evaluated novel, device effective rehabilitation strategy stroke patient disability. results reveal valuable information individualized against deconditioning. 73-year-old woman suddenly unable speak, follow directions move her left arm leg. She could not walk, self-care tasks required maximal assistance. Her condition getting worse over years, also she receiving conventional treatment. Intermittent protocols were applied 5 months, three times week, 60 treatments total. Results: It resulted significant improvement gait, decreased atrophy less spasticity body side, ability walk at least 100 m cane. Balance strength improved significantly. Cardiovascular parameters responding adaptations aerobic exercise. Electroencephalography (EEG) showed brain reorganization/plasticity evidenced through functional connectivity alterations activation cortical regions, especially precentral postcentral gyrus. Stroke immobility-related disability improved. Discussion: These attributed intervention. This study provides novel evidence supporting use promising therapeutic restricted mobility, application long-term space.