Effect of the Use of an Upper Limb Orthosis on Kinematics and Maximum Load During Resistance Exercises in Individuals with Hemiplegia

• Grant number: 25/22336-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Nise Ribeiro Marques
• Grantee: Beatriz Borges de Moraes
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Filosofia e Ciências (FFC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Marília. Marília , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/01132-2 - Multidisciplinary Center for the Development of Assistive Technology (MCDAT), AP.CCD

Abstract

Introduction: Physical disability resulting from hemiplegia compromises daily activities and functional abilities, directly affecting autonomy and social inclusion. Considering the relevance of sport and adapted physical activity as strategies for rehabilitation and inclusion, it becomes essential to develop resources that enable the practice of resistance exercises with greater safety and efficacy. Objective: To investigate the effect of using an upper limb orthosis on joint angular kinematics and maximum load during resistance exercises in individuals with hemiplegia. Methods: The study is a randomized, single-blind and crossover clinical trial, initially involving 20 participants with hemiplegia engaged in resistance exercises training. Parameters of angular kinematics of the shoulder, elbow, and spine joints, as well as performance in the 10-repetition maximum (10 RM) test, will be analyzed under conditions with and without the use of the orthosis. The proposed orthosis will be manufactured using 3D printing with PLA filament, featuring a customized design and intended to contributes for impaired manual grip. Statistical analysis will be performed using repeated measures ANOVA or the Friedman test, according to normality or not distribution, considering a significance level of p < 0.05. (AU)