AUTHOR=Lu Yiqing , Yang Weiwei , Wu Song , Li Yicheng , Wei Jinhu , Li Ming , Li Yongcheng , Huai Yaping 

TITLE=Exploring neural activity changes during motor imagery-based brain-computer interface training with robotic hand for upper limb rehabilitation in ischemic stroke patients: a pilot study

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Human Neuroscience

VOLUME=Volume 19 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2025.1626000

DOI=10.3389/fnhum.2025.1626000

ISSN=1662-5161

ABSTRACT=ObjectiveThis pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and tolerability of motor imagery (MI)-based brain-computer interface (BCI) training with robotic hand assistance for upper limb rehabilitation, and to explore preliminary neural markers in ischemic stroke patients.MethodsThree post-stroke participants performed MI tasks combined with exoskeleton-assisted movements to facilitate rehabilitation training. Electroencephalography (EEG) signals were recorded to assess the neural correlates of MI. Functional outcomes were evaluated using standard assessment tools.ResultsOur results demonstrated significant improvements in motor function across all participants. Additionally, EEG analysis revealed event-related desynchronization (ERD) in the high-alpha band power at motor cortex locations, with individual differences in both the frequency and power of neural activity. However, no significant trends in neural activity were observed across the training sessions.ConclusionThese findings suggest that MI-based BCI training, combined with robotic assistance, offer a promising approach for enhancing upper limb function in ischemic stroke patients.