Frequently Asked Questions

Neuroplasticity is a fundamental concept to understand in how RehabSwift works.

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to adapt and change in response to new experiences and injury. This means that the brain can reorganize itself and form new connections, even after a stroke. This is important for recovery, as it allows the brain to compensate for the damage caused by the stroke.

According to Timothy H. Murphy and Dale Corbett, in their paper published in Nature Journal “Plasticity during stroke recovery: from synapse to behaviour”, the brain’s ability to adapt and change can be leveraged to maximise the recovery after stroke. The article describes how different forms of therapy, such as physical and occupational therapy, can be used to help the brain create new connections and compensate for the damage caused by the stroke.

Brain Computer Interface (BCI) technology, is a system that allows direct communication and interaction between the human brain and an external device, typically a computer or electronic device. It is a technology that enables individuals to control external devices using their brain activity.

BCI technology works by capturing electrical signals or patterns generated by the brain and translating them into commands that can be understood by the connected device. These signals are usually detected using electrodes placed on the scalp.

When it comes to recovery of arm and hand movement, neuroplasticity can be a powerful tool. By using brain-computer interfaces, people can practice new movements and retrain their brains. Over time, this repetition can lead to neuroplastic changes in the brain that allow for improved arm and hand function.

Brain-computer interfaces are a promising tool in rehabilitation, as they allow people to work on their movements in a new and engaging way, promoting neuroplastic changes that can lead to better function and recovery.

Our in-clinic program is designed to be completed in 39 sessions over a period of 8 weeks. To ensure that the program is a good fit for your hand recovery goals, we offer stroke survivors an initial phone call during which we check the suitability of our advanced stroke recovery solution for you. After that, the first session will involve a thorough assessment of your conditions after stroke.

Once we’ve determined that our hand rehabilitation program is a good fit, you’ll participate in 18 training sessions that are part of a 4-week intensive program. After these sessions, we’ll assess your progress and work with you to develop a plan for the remaining sessions.

Depending on your progress and recovery goals, a second round of intensive training will be delivered in another 4-week program.

Our goal is to create a customized rehabilitation program that meets your stroke recovery needs and helps you achieve your recovery goals.

To ensure our stroke rehabilitation solution is a good fit for each stroke survivor’s unique conditions, we first measure their level of physical, cognitive, and sensory capabilities. In addition, we perform a non-invasive screening of the client’s brainwave activity while relaxed and during intention to move the stroke-affected hand.

We conduct screening by fitting the non-invasive EEG cap on stroke survivors, which typically takes 1-2 hours. This data is then used to calibrate our software program for the individual, which allows for personalised training sessions.

During each training session, you will undergo an EMG test and also complete five runs of our EEG training program, taking up to 1.5 hours. 

The EMG test is a non-invasive reflex test of the extensor muscles on the forearm, using adhesive electrodes and the RehabSwift robotic hands. This allows our software to track ongoing improvements and adjust the training sessions accordingly. 

Meanwhile, EEG training sessions involve non-invasive brain activity monitoring using an EEG cap. By using their thoughts and intention to move, clients can control the movement of the robotic hand enmeshed with their fingers, strengthening the neural pathways for sensory-motor function through completion of the neuro-feedback loop.

The RehabSwift program has been proven to provide significant benefits for individuals recovering from arm and hand impairments after stroke. Our clinical trials and research have shown that stroke survivors experienced improved movement and sensation in their affected arm and hand. Additionally, many participants have reported enhanced cognition following the program. These benefits are the result of the program’s unique combination of cutting-edge technology, personalised rehabilitation plans, and a commitment to providing the best possible care for stroke survivors.

The RehabSwift program stands out from other stroke rehabilitation solutions in several key ways. 

Firstly, our program incorporates the latest in brain-computer interface technology, allowing for a highly personalised and interactive experience for each patient. In fact, we are the only stroke rehabilitation in the world that tailors feedback to the individual’s timing pattern, providing extremely precise rehabilitation.

Secondly, our program is based on the principle of neuroplasticity, meaning that we focus on retraining the brain to promote long-term recovery and improved function. 

Lastly, our team of experts are dedicated to providing the highest quality of care and support for each and every stroke survivor. These factors, combined with our commitment to ongoing research and development on new stroke recovery solutions, set the RehabSwift program apart as a world leader in the field of precision rehabilitation.

Due to the nature of RehabSwift’s personalised feedback, our program is widely available for anyone in the late sub-acute and chronic stage post stroke.

In fact, a client who took part in our clinical trials was 40 years post-stroke and still saw results!

To be eligible for this service, you should:

  • Have experienced a stroke.
  • Have arm/hand mobility restrictions.
  • Not have complete contracture of arm/hand on restricted side.
  • Have the cognitive capacity to comprehend and follow instructions.
  • Have the commitment to attend all sessions

RehabSwift fits in seamlessly with your current programs as you may undertake both at the same time!

RehabSwift can be covered under NDIS and MyAgedCare codes, either partially or fully depending on your level of cover. We will provide all relevant service agreements and reports for fund allocation.

Please note that, agency-managed NDIS clients can not be reimbursed for our services.

Pro-Rehab is our portable and accessible companion to RehabSwift. Rather than using brain computer interface technology, Pro-Rehab uses audio-visual prompts and a robotic hand to promote similar benefits to RehabSwift.

Pro-Rehab is classed as a repetitive passive movement system. This system promotes neural plasticity and helps strengthen neural pathways. 

Pro-Rehab’s flexibility is what makes it such an incredible interface. It can be used in a variety of ways:

  1. In  preparation for neural feedback training with RehabSwift’s flagship product. This can prepare the stroke survivor for the sensation of neural feedback training.
  2. As a complement to RehabSwift’s flagship product: clients can utilise Pro-Rehab on the days they are not undertaking RehabSwift training to maximise their outcomes.
  3. Finally, Pro-Rehab can be used as a standalone device. This is especially important for those who live remotely or cannot access our clinic.

We make the process with Pro-Rehab as easy as possible. First, we deliver and install the device directly to your home or preferred location. Second, we provide comprehensive training and a training manual – but don’t stress, Pro-Rehab is super easy to use, with a few touches of the screen you’re ready to go. Third, you can conduct your Pro-Rehab via remote tele-rehabilitation with a qualified neuro-physiotherapist; or use it whenever is convenient for you!

If your question wasn’t answered on this FAQ page, get in touch via our easy Contact Us page and we will endeavor to respond promptly!