Does combining robot training with acupuncture improve stroke recovery?

Stroke recovery often involves multiple therapies to regain movement and function. Robot-assisted training (RAT) provides repetitive, precise movement practice, while acupuncture is a traditional therapy that may stimulate nerve repair. Combining these two approaches appears to produce better results than either alone. A 2025 meta-analysis of 21 studies found that adding acupuncture to robot training significantly improved lower limb function, walking ability, and daily activities compared to robot training alone ⁸. Other recent studies support this finding, showing benefits for both upper and lower limb recovery ⁹¹⁰.

What the research says

A large meta-analysis of 21 randomized controlled trials involving 1,821 stroke patients found that robot-assisted training plus acupuncture led to significantly greater improvements in lower limb motor function (measured by the Fugl-Meyer Assessment), walking ability (Functional Ambulation Category), balance (Berg Balance Scale), and daily living activities (Modified Barthel Index) compared to robot training alone or conventional rehabilitation ⁸. Gait parameters such as step length, speed, and width also improved more with the combination ⁸. A separate 2025 study using functional near-infrared spectroscopy showed that adding acupuncture to upper limb robot training increased oxygenated hemoglobin in brain regions linked to movement, indicating enhanced neural remodeling ⁹. Another 2025 trial using electroencephalography found that combining electroacupuncture with robot-assisted gait training reduced brain symmetry index and improved coherence in brain networks, suggesting better neural reorganization ¹⁰. A network meta-analysis of 11 studies also ranked acupuncture plus robot training as the second most effective combination (after transcranial magnetic stimulation plus robot training) for improving lower limb motor function ¹¹. However, the evidence comes mainly from short-term studies, and long-term outcomes are less clear.

What to ask your doctor

• Would combining robot-assisted therapy with acupuncture be appropriate for my specific type and stage of stroke recovery?
• How many sessions of combined therapy are typically recommended, and what outcomes can I realistically expect?
• Are there any risks or side effects of adding acupuncture to robot training, such as bruising or discomfort?
• Is this combination therapy available at your facility or can you refer me to a center that offers it?
• How will we measure my progress—will we use tests like the Fugl-Meyer or Berg Balance Scale?