Robots are helping stroke patients regain the use of their arms

'Rehabilitation robots' are being trialled at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Newcastle University The machines, developed by MIT, work by supporting a patients arm and letting them move it between targets on a computer screen Patients receive as much help as they need form the robot to build up their strength and improve their coordination Stroke victims report seeing improvements with just a few sessions

By Sarah Griffiths

Published: 10:53 EST, 3 July 2014 | Updated: 12:39 EST, 3 July 2014

Robots (pictured) are helping stroke victims to regain the use of their arms

Robots are helping stroke victims to regain the use of their arms.

The machines work by supporting a patients arm and letting them move it between targets on a computer screen, to build up their strength and improve their coordination.

Rehabilitation robots, which have been seen in a number of studies are being taken more and more seriously, with a major trial underway at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Newcastle University.

The stroke patient sits at a table facing a computer screen and places their arm on to the robotic device.

A therapist then asks the patient to undertake some arm exercises, such as moving between targets on the computer screen.

If the person is unable to move their arm, then the robot moves the patient's limb for them.

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Robots are helping stroke patients regain the use of their arms