FURI | Spring 2026

Characterization of Shoulder Joint Impedance Across 3D Arm Postures in Stroke Patients

Stroke survivors often experience impaired motor control due to neuromuscular damage that alters shoulder mechanics. However, shoulder joint impedance across three-dimensional arm postures remains poorly understood in stroke populations. This study will use a shoulder exoskeleton robot to characterize joint impedance in individuals with post-stroke motor impairment across multiple arm postures. By quantifying how impedance varies with posture, this work aims to address a critical gap in understanding the relationship between neuromuscular impairment and biomechanical function. Improved characterization of shoulder mechanics can enhance shoulder biomechanical modeling and inform the development of improved rehabilitation strategies to support upper-limb recovery after stroke.