Questions Frequently Asked by Clinicians and Researchers

What is a “Hand Mentor™”?
The Hand Mentor™ is the first Active Repetitive Motion device designed for in-home and clinical use.  The Hand Mentor™ actively involves the patient in their rehab by encouraging self-powered motion, by the wrist and fingers, and assisting movement when necessary.

Why is it called the “Mentor”?
The device provides instructions and assistance.  It encourages and challenges the patient to achieve, surpass and increase their goals.  It records and reports progress.   The Hand Mentor™ will not do the work for you, but it will work with you to achieve your goals. 

How does it work?
The Hand Mentor™ provides three types of visual feedback: force, position and EMG (electrical activity of the muscle).  An “air muscle” pulls the linkage mechanism, assisting the patient with desired movement, when they are not able to move their wrist or fingers on their own. 

What is an “air muscle”?
It is a soft and springy air driven actuator that pulls a linkage system that raises the hand and wrist in a fluid motion.  Because of the soft springy muscle-like properties of the “air muscle”, it is safer than a motor and gear driven apparatus.

Who can benefit from using the Hand Mentor™?
Stroke and other brain-injured patients of varying degrees of ability can benefit from the device.  A patient with high tone or spasticity can increase their passive range of motion using our spasticity reduction program.  Patients with some movement capabilities can improve active range of motion with the motor control and active recruitment programs.