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Chen S, Zhang W, Wang D, Chen Z. How robot-assisted gait training affects gait ability, balance and kinematic parameters after stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2024; 60:400-411. [PMID: 38647534 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.24.08354-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gait ability is often cited by stroke survivors. Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) can help stroke patients with lower limb motor impairment regain motor coordination. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase were systematically searched until September 2023, to identify randomized controlled trials presenting: stroke survivors as participants; RAGT as intervention; conventional rehabilitation as a comparator; gait assessment, through scales or quantitative parameters, as outcome measures. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS Twenty-seven publications involving 1167 patients met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed no significant differences in speed, cadence, spatial symmetry, and changes in joint mobility angles between the RAGT group and the control group. In addition, RAGT was associated with changes in affected side step length (SMD=0.02, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.03; P<0.0001), temporal symmetry (SMD=-0.38, 95% CI: -0.6, -0.16; P=0.0006], Six-Minute Walk Test (SMD=25.14, 95% CI: 10.19, 40.09; P=0.0010] and Functional Ambulation Categories (SMD=0.32, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.63; P=0.04). According to the PEDro scale, 19 (70.4%) studies were of high quality and eight were of moderate quality (29.6%). CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the review synthesis showed that RAGT might have a potential role in the recovery of walking dysfunction after stroke. However, its superiority over conventional rehabilitation requires further research. Additionally, it may provide unexpected benefits that the effects of RAGT with different types or treatment protocols were further compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shishi Chen
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wanying Zhang
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dingyu Wang
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhaoming Chen
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Research Institute of Zhejiang Province, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China -
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Teodoro J, Fernandes S, Castro C, Fernandes JB. Current Trends in Gait Rehabilitation for Stroke Survivors: A Scoping Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1358. [PMID: 38592172 PMCID: PMC10932333 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13051358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke stands as a significant global health concern, constituting a leading cause of disability worldwide. Rehabilitation interventions are crucial in aiding the recovery of stroke patients, contributing to an overall enhancement in their quality of life. This scoping review seeks to identify current trends in gait rehabilitation for stroke survivors. METHODS The review followed the methodological framework suggested by Arksey and O'Malley. Electronic databases, such as CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE Complete, and Nursing & Allied Health Collection, were systematically searched in November 2023. Inclusion criteria comprised papers published in either English or Portuguese from 2013 to 2023. RESULTS From the initial search, a total of 837 papers were identified; twenty-one papers were incorporated into this review. Thirteen distinct categories of gait rehabilitation interventions were identified, encompassing diverse approaches. These categories comprise conventional rehabilitation exercises, traditional gait training with integrated technology, and gait training supported by modern technologies. CONCLUSIONS Although traditional rehabilitation exercises have historically proven effective in aiding stroke survivors, a recent trend has emerged, emphasizing the development and integration of innovative therapeutic approaches that harness modern technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Teodoro
- Department of Nursing, Hospital Garcia de Orta, 2805-267 Almada, Portugal;
- Nurs* Lab, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.)
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal
| | - Sónia Fernandes
- Nurs* Lab, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.)
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal
| | - Cidália Castro
- Nurs* Lab, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.)
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal
| | - Júlio Belo Fernandes
- Nurs* Lab, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal; (S.F.); (C.C.)
- Egas Moniz Center for Interdisciplinary Research (CiiEM), Egas Moniz School of Health & Science, 2829-511 Almada, Portugal
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Kim E, Lee G, Lee J, Kim YH. Simultaneous high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation and robot-assisted gait training in stroke patients. Sci Rep 2024; 14:4483. [PMID: 38396060 PMCID: PMC10891044 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53482-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates whether simultaneous high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) enhances the effects of robot-assisted gait training in stroke patients. Twenty-four participants were randomly allocated to either the robot-assisted gait training with real HD-tDCS group (real HD-tDCS group) or robot-assisted gait training with sham HD-tDCS group (sham HD-tDCS group). Over four weeks, both groups completed 10 sessions. The 10 Meter Walk Test, Timed Up and Go, Functional Ambulation Category, Functional Reach Test, Berg Balance Scale, Dynamic Gait Index, Fugl-Meyer Assessment, and Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index were conducted before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention. The real HD-tDCS group showed significant improvements in the 10 Meter Walk Test, Timed Up and Go, Functional Reach Test, and Berg Balance Scale immediately and one month after the intervention, compared with before the intervention. Significant improvements in the Dynamic Gait Index and Fugl-Meyer Assessment were also observed immediately after the intervention. The sham HD-tDCS group showed no significant improvements in any of the tests. Application of HD-tDCS during robot-assisted gait training has a positive effect on gait and physical function in chronic stroke patients, ensuring long-term training effects. Our results suggest the effectiveness of HD-tDCS as a complementary tool to enhance robotic gait rehabilitation therapy in chronic stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunmi Kim
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Gihyoun Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program of Biomedical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Yeosu, 59626, Republic of Korea
- School of Healthcare and Biomedical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Yeosu, 59626, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungsoo Lee
- Department of Medical IT Convergence Engineering, Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi, 39253, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yun-Hee Kim
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea.
- Haeundae Sharing and Happiness Hospital, Busan, 48101, Republic of Korea.
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Cotinat M, Celerier M, Arquillière C, Flipo M, Prieur-Blanc N, Viton JM, Bensoussan L. Robotic gait training and botulinum toxin injection improve gait in the chronic post-stroke phase: A randomized controlled trial. Ann Phys Rehabil Med 2024; 67:101785. [PMID: 38118342 DOI: 10.1016/j.rehab.2023.101785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improving walking ability is one of the main goals of rehabilitation after stroke. When lower limb spasticity increases walking difficulty, botulinum toxin type A (BTx-A) injections can be combined with non-pharmacologic interventions such as intensive rehabilitation using a robotic approach. To the best of our knowledge, no comparisons have been made between the efficacy of robotic gait training and conventional physical therapy in combination with BTx-A injections. OBJECTIVE To conduct a randomized controlled trial to compare the efficacy on gait of robotic gait training versus conventional physiotherapy after BTx-A injection into the spastic triceps surae in people after stroke. METHOD Thirty-three participants in the chronic stroke phase with triceps surae spasticity inducing gait impairment were included. After BTx-A injection, participants were randomized into 2 groups. Group A underwent robotic gait training (Lokomat®) for 2 weeks, followed by conventional physiotherapy for 2 weeks (n = 15) and Group B underwent the same treatment in reverse order (n = 18). The efficacy of these methods was tested using the 6-minute walk test (6MWT), comparing post-test 1 and post-test 2 with the pre-test. RESULTS After the first period, the 6MWT increased significantly more in Group A than in Group B: the mean difference between the interventions was 33 m (95%CI 9; 58 p = 0.007; g = 0.95), in favor of Group A; after the second period, the 6MWT increased in both groups, but the 30 m difference between the groups still remained (95%CI 5; 55 p = 0.019; g = 0.73). CONCLUSION Two weeks of robotic gait training performed 2 weeks after BTx-A injections improved walking performance more than conventional physiotherapy. Large-scale studies are now required on the timing of robotic rehabilitation after BTx-A injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maëva Cotinat
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INT UMR 7289, Marseille, France; Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Marseille University Hospital, France.
| | - Mathilde Celerier
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Marseille University Hospital, France
| | - Clelia Arquillière
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Marseille University Hospital, France
| | - Margot Flipo
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Marseille University Hospital, France
| | - Nicolas Prieur-Blanc
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Marseille University Hospital, France
| | - Jean-Michel Viton
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INT UMR 7289, Marseille, France; Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Marseille University Hospital, France
| | - Laurent Bensoussan
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS, INT UMR 7289, Marseille, France; Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Marseille University Hospital, France; UGECAM Institut Universitaire de Réadaptation de Valmante Sud
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Wu L, Xu G, Wu Q. The effect of the Lokomat ® robotic-orthosis system on lower extremity rehabilitation in patients with stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1260652. [PMID: 38125828 PMCID: PMC10730677 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1260652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Lokomat® is a device utilized for gait training in post-stroke patients. Through a systematic review, the objective was to determine whether robot-assisted gait training with the Lokomat® is more effective in enhancing lower extremity rehabilitation in patients with stroke in comparison to conventional physical therapy (CPT). Methods In this study, a systematic search was conducted in various databases, including CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), as well as bibliographies of previous meta-analyses, to identify all randomized controlled trials that investigated the use of Lokomat® devices in adult stroke patients. The study aimed to derive pooled estimates of standardized mean differences for six outcomes, namely, Fugl-Meyer Assessment lower-extremity subscale (FMA-LE), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), gait speed, functional ambulation category scale (FAC), timed up and go (TUG), and functional independence measure (FIM), through random effects meta-analyses. Results The review analyzed 21 studies with a total of 709 participants and found that the use of Lokomat® in stroke patients resulted in favorable outcomes for the recovery of balance as measured by the BBS (mean difference = 2.71, 95% CI 1.39 to 4.03; p < 0.0001). However, the FAC showed that Lokomat® was less effective than the CPT group (mean difference = -0.28, 95% CI -0.45 to 0.11, P = 0.001). There were no significant differences in FMA-LE (mean difference = 1.27, 95% CI -0.88 to 3.42, P = 0.25), gait speed (mean difference = 0.02, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.07, P = 0.44), TUG (mean difference = -0.12, 95% CI -0.71 to 0.46, P = 0.68), or FIM (mean difference = 2.12, 95% CI -2.92 to 7.16, P = 0.41) between the Lokomat® and CPT groups for stroke patients. Conclusion Our results indicate that, with the exception of more notable improvements in balance, robot-assisted gait training utilizing the Lokomat® was not superior to CPT based on the current literature. Considering its ability to reduce therapists' work intensity and burden, the way in which Lokomat® is applied should be strengthened, or future randomized controlled trial studies should use more sensitive assessment criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Wu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Foresea Life Insurance Nanning Hospital, Nanning, Guangxi Province, China
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Saragih ID, Everard G, Tzeng HM, Saragih IS, Lee BO. Efficacy of Robots-Assisted Therapy in Patients With Stroke: A Meta-analysis Update. J Cardiovasc Nurs 2023; 38:E192-E217. [PMID: 37816087 DOI: 10.1097/jcn.0000000000000945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robot-assisted therapy (RAT) could address an unmet need to relieve the strain on healthcare providers and intensify treatment in the context of an increasing stroke incidence. A comprehensive meta-analysis could provide firmer data about the topic by considering methodology limitations discovered in previous reviews and providing more rigorous evidence. OBJECTIVE This meta-analysis study identifies RAT's efficacy for patients with stroke. METHODS A systematic search of the 7 databases from January 10 to February 1, 2022, located relevant publications. We used the updated Cochrane risk-of-bias checklist for 52 trials to assess the methodologic quality of the included studies. The efficacy of RAT for patients with stroke was estimated using a pooled random-effects model in the Stata 16 software application. RESULTS The final analysis included 2774 patients with stroke from 52 trials. In those patients, RAT was proven to improve quality of movement (mean difference, 0.15; 95% confidence interval, 0.03-0.28) and to reduce balance disturbances (mean difference, -1.28; 95% confidence interval, -2.48 to -0.09) and pain (standardized mean difference, -0.34; 95% confidence interval, -0.58 to -0.09). CONCLUSIONS Robot-assisted therapy seems to improve the quality of mobility and reduce balance disturbances and pain for patients with stroke. These findings will help develop advanced rehabilitation robots and could improve health outcomes by facilitating health services for healthcare providers and patients with stroke.
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Yang J, Gong Y, Yu L, Peng L, Cui Y, Huang H. Effect of exoskeleton robot-assisted training on gait function in chronic stroke survivors: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e074481. [PMID: 37709309 PMCID: PMC10503387 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Numbers of research have reported the usage of robot-assisted gait training for walking restoration post-stroke. However, no consistent conclusion has been reached yet about the efficacy of exoskeleton robot-assisted training (ERAT) on gait function of stroke survivors, especially during the chronic period. We conducted a systematic review to investigate the efficacy of ERAT on gait function for chronic stroke survivors. DESIGN This review followed the Participant, Intervention, Comparison and Outcome principle. DATA SOURCES PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature databases were systematically searched until December 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included and these RCTs took patients who had a chronic stroke as participants, exoskeleton robot-assisted gait training as intervention, regular rehabilitation therapy as comparison and gait-related functional assessments as outcomes. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data extraction and synthesis used the reporting checklist for systematic review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The risk of bias and methodological quality of included studies were evaluated by two independent investigators under the guidance of Cochrane risk of bias. RESULTS Out of 278 studies, a total of 10 studies (n=323, mean age 57.6 years, 63.2% males) were identified in this systematic review. According to the Cochrane risk of bias, the quality of these studies was assessed as low risk. Six studies reported favourable effects of ERAT on gait function involving gait performance, balance function and physical endurance, and the ERAT group was significantly superior when compared with the control group. In contrast, the other four trials showed equal or negative effects of ERAT considering different study designs. All the included studies did not claim any serious adverse events. CONCLUSION ERAT could be an efficient intervention to improve gait function for individuals who had a chronic stroke. However, more rigorously designed trials are required to draw more solid evidence. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42023410796.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinchao Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Gong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Laiying Peng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuanfen Cui
- Department of Pain Management, Wuhan No 1 Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Hailong Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Hwang S, Song CS. Assistive Technology Involving Postural Control and Gait Performance for Adults with Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2225. [PMID: 37570466 PMCID: PMC10418390 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11152225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to comprehensively summarize assistive technology devices for postural control and gait performance in stroke patients. In the study, we searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published until 31 December 2022 in four electrical databases. The most frequently applied assistive technology devices involving postural stability and gait function for stroke patients were robot-assistive technology devices. Out of 1065 initially retrieved citations that met the inclusion criteria, 30 RCTs (12 studies for subacute patients and 18 studies for chronic patients) were included in this review based on eligibility criteria. The meta-analysis included ten RCTs (five studies for subacute patients and five for chronic patients) based on the inclusion criteria of the data analysis. After analyzing, the variables, only two parameters, the Berg balance scale (BBS) and the functional ambulation category (FAC), which had relevant data from at least three studies measuring postural control and gait function, were selected for the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed significant differences in the experimental group compared to the control group for BBS in both subacute and chronic stroke patients and for the FAC in chronic stroke patients. Robot-assistive training was found to be superior to regular therapy in improving postural stability for subacute and chronic stroke patients but not gait function. This review suggests that robot-assistive technology devices should be considered in rehabilitative approaches for postural stability and gait function for subacute and chronic stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujin Hwang
- Department of Physical Therapy, Division of Health Science, Baekseok University, Cheonan 31065, Republic of Korea;
- The Graduate School of Health Welfare, Baekseok University, Seoul 06695, Republic of Korea
| | - Chiang-Soon Song
- Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Natural Science and Public Health and Safety, Chosun University, Gwangju 61452, Republic of Korea
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Stramel DM, Winterbottom L, Stein J, Agrawal SK. Overground Robotic Gait Trainer mTPAD Improves Gait Symmetry and Weight Bearing in Stroke Survivors. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:698. [PMID: 37370629 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10060698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Stroke is a leading cause of disability, impairing the ability to generate propulsive forces and causing significant lateral gait asymmetry. We aim to improve stroke survivors' gaits by promoting weight-bearing during affected limb stance. External forces can encourage this; e.g., vertical forces can augment the gravitational force requiring higher ground reaction forces, or lateral forces can shift the center of mass over the stance foot, altering the lateral placement of the center of pressure. With our novel design of a mobile Tethered Pelvic Assist Device (mTPAD) paired with the DeepSole system to predict the user's gait cycle percentage, we demonstrate how to apply three-dimensional forces on the pelvis without lower limb constraints. This work is the first result in the literature that shows that with an applied lateral force during affected limb stance, the center of pressure trajectory's lateral symmetry is significantly closer to a 0% symmetry (5.5%) than without external force applied (-9.8%,p<0.05). Furthermore, the affected limb's maximum relative pressure (p) significantly increases from 233.7p to 234.1p (p<0.05) with an applied downward force, increasing affected limb loading. This work highlights how the mTPAD increases weight-bearing and propulsive forces during gait, which is a crucial goal for stroke survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren Winterbottom
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Joel Stein
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sunil K Agrawal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
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Lyu T, Yan K, Lyu J, Zhao X, Wang R, Zhang C, Liu M, Xiong C, Liu C, Wei Y. Comparative efficacy of gait training for balance outcomes in patients with stroke: A systematic review and network meta-analysis. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1093779. [PMID: 37077566 PMCID: PMC10106590 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1093779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundGrowing evidence suggests that gait training can improve stroke patients’ balance outcomes. However, it remains unclear which type of gait training is more effective in improving certain types of balance outcomes in patients with stroke. Thus, this network meta-analysis (NMA) included six types of gait training (treadmill, body-weight-supported treadmill, virtual reality gait training, robotic-assisted gait training, overground walking training, and conventional gait training) and four types of balance outcomes (static steady-state balance, dynamic steady-state balance, proactive balance, and balance test batteries), aiming to compare the efficacy of different gait training on specific types of balance outcomes in stroke patients and determine the most effective gait training.MethodWe searched PubMed, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases from inception until 25 April 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of gait training for the treatment of balance outcomes after stroke were included. RoB2 was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. Frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis (NMA) was used to evaluate the effect of gait training on four categories of balance outcomes.ResultA total of 61 RCTs from 2,551 citations, encompassing 2,328 stroke patients, were included in this study. Pooled results showed that body-weight-support treadmill (SMD = 0.30, 95% CI [0.01, 0.58]) and treadmill (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI [0.00, 0.49]) could improve the dynamic steady-state balance. Virtual reality gait training (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI [0.10, 0.71]) and body-weight-supported treadmill (SMD = 0.41, 95% CI [0.02, 0.80]) demonstrated better effects in improving balance test batteries. However, none of included gait training showed a significant effect on static steady-state balance and proactive balance.ConclusionGait training is an effective treatment for improving stroke patients’ dynamic steady-state balance and balance test batteries. However, gait training had no significant effect on static steady-state balance and proactive balance. To achieve maximum efficacy, clinicians should consider this evidence when recommending rehabilitation training to stroke patients. Considering body-weight-supported treadmill is not common for chronic stroke patients in clinical practice, the treadmill is recommended for those who want to improve dynamic steady-state balance, and virtual reality gait training is recommended for those who want to improve balance test batteries.LimitationMissing evidence in relation to some types of gait training is supposed to be taken into consideration. Moreover, we fail to assess reactive balance in this NMA since few included trials reported this outcome.Systematic Review RegistrationPROSPERO, identifier CRD42022349965.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyi Lyu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Kang Yan
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaxuan Lyu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xirui Zhao
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ruoshui Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chaoyang Zhang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Xiong
- L3 & Maintenance Solutions, SUSE Software (Beijing) Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Chengjiang Liu
- Department of General Medicine, Affiliated Anqing First People’s Hospital of Anhui Medical University, HeFei, Anhui, China
| | - Yulong Wei
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Yulong Wei,
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Zhu YH, Ruan M, Yun RS, Zhong YX, Zhang YX, Wang YJ, Sun YL, Cui JW. Is Leg-Driven Treadmill-Based Exoskeleton Robot Training Beneficial to Poststroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2023; 102:331-339. [PMID: 36075885 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000002098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to systematically review the effects of leg-driven treadmill-based exoskeleton robot training on balance and walking ability in poststroke patients. DESIGN The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, Medline, CNKI, VIP, and Wanfang databases were searched from inception to August 2021. The literature quality was evaluated using Cochrane Handbook. Primary outcomes include the Functional Ambulation Category Scale and Berg Balance Scale, and secondary outcomes include the 10 meter walk test, 6 minute walk test, and gait assessment cadence were analyzed. RESULTS Seventeen randomized controlled trials were included in the systematic review, 15 studies in meta-analysis. Primary outcomes showed no significant difference in the Functional Ambulation Category Scale score; subgroup with the exoskeleton robot + conventional therapy of the Berg Balance Scale score was significantly increased; secondary outcomes showed no significance in 6 minute walk test or 10 meter walk test. The cadence score increased for the subgroup with an onset of more than 6 mos in the treatment group. The control group performed better than the subgroup with an onset of less than 6 mos. CONCLUSIONS Leg-driven treadmill-based exoskeleton robot training can improve balance function in poststroke patients and is beneficial for patients with an onset of greater than 6 mos. However, there is no evidence to support the efficacy of walking ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Hui Zhu
- From the School of Rehabilitation Science, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China (Y-HZ, MR, R-SY, Y-X Zhong, Y-X Zhang, Y-JW, J-WC); and Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China (Y-JW, Y-LS)
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12
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de Miguel-Fernández J, Lobo-Prat J, Prinsen E, Font-Llagunes JM, Marchal-Crespo L. Control strategies used in lower limb exoskeletons for gait rehabilitation after brain injury: a systematic review and analysis of clinical effectiveness. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:23. [PMID: 36805777 PMCID: PMC9938998 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01144-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past decade, there has been substantial progress in the development of robotic controllers that specify how lower-limb exoskeletons should interact with brain-injured patients. However, it is still an open question which exoskeleton control strategies can more effectively stimulate motor function recovery. In this review, we aim to complement previous literature surveys on the topic of exoskeleton control for gait rehabilitation by: (1) providing an updated structured framework of current control strategies, (2) analyzing the methodology of clinical validations used in the robotic interventions, and (3) reporting the potential relation between control strategies and clinical outcomes. METHODS Four databases were searched using database-specific search terms from January 2000 to September 2020. We identified 1648 articles, of which 159 were included and evaluated in full-text. We included studies that clinically evaluated the effectiveness of the exoskeleton on impaired participants, and which clearly explained or referenced the implemented control strategy. RESULTS (1) We found that assistive control (100% of exoskeletons) that followed rule-based algorithms (72%) based on ground reaction force thresholds (63%) in conjunction with trajectory-tracking control (97%) were the most implemented control strategies. Only 14% of the exoskeletons implemented adaptive control strategies. (2) Regarding the clinical validations used in the robotic interventions, we found high variability on the experimental protocols and outcome metrics selected. (3) With high grade of evidence and a moderate number of participants (N = 19), assistive control strategies that implemented a combination of trajectory-tracking and compliant control showed the highest clinical effectiveness for acute stroke. However, they also required the longest training time. With high grade of evidence and low number of participants (N = 8), assistive control strategies that followed a threshold-based algorithm with EMG as gait detection metric and control signal provided the highest improvements with the lowest training intensities for subacute stroke. Finally, with high grade of evidence and a moderate number of participants (N = 19), assistive control strategies that implemented adaptive oscillator algorithms together with trajectory-tracking control resulted in the highest improvements with reduced training intensities for individuals with chronic stroke. CONCLUSIONS Despite the efforts to develop novel and more effective controllers for exoskeleton-based gait neurorehabilitation, the current level of evidence on the effectiveness of the different control strategies on clinical outcomes is still low. There is a clear lack of standardization in the experimental protocols leading to high levels of heterogeneity. Standardized comparisons among control strategies analyzing the relation between control parameters and biomechanical metrics will fill this gap to better guide future technical developments. It is still an open question whether controllers that provide an on-line adaptation of the control parameters based on key biomechanical descriptors associated to the patients' specific pathology outperform current control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús de Miguel-Fernández
- Biomechanical Engineering Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Research Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Diagonal 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Santa Rosa 39-57, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | | | - Erik Prinsen
- Roessingh Research and Development, Roessinghsbleekweg 33b, 7522AH Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Josep M. Font-Llagunes
- Biomechanical Engineering Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Research Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Diagonal 647, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Santa Rosa 39-57, 08950 Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain
| | - Laura Marchal-Crespo
- Cognitive Robotics Department, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628 Delft, Netherlands
- Motor Learning and Neurorehabilitation Lab, ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 3, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Doctor Molewaterplein 40, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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13
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Loro A, Borg MB, Battaglia M, Amico AP, Antenucci R, Benanti P, Bertoni M, Bissolotti L, Boldrini P, Bonaiuti D, Bowman T, Capecci M, Castelli E, Cavalli L, Cinone N, Cosenza L, Di Censo R, Di Stefano G, Draicchio F, Falabella V, Filippetti M, Galeri S, Gimigliano F, Grigioni M, Invernizzi M, Jonsdottir J, Lentino C, Massai P, Mazzoleni S, Mazzon S, Molteni F, Morelli S, Morone G, Nardone A, Panzeri D, Petrarca M, Posteraro F, Santamato A, Scotti L, Senatore M, Spina S, Taglione E, Turchetti G, Varalta V, Picelli A, Baricich A. Balance Rehabilitation through Robot-Assisted Gait Training in Post-Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13010092. [PMID: 36672074 PMCID: PMC9856764 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13010092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Balance impairment is a common disability in post-stroke survivors, leading to reduced mobility and increased fall risk. Robotic gait training (RAGT) is largely used, along with traditional training. There is, however, no strong evidence about RAGT superiority, especially on balance. This study aims to determine RAGT efficacy on balance of post-stroke survivors. METHODS PubMed, Cochrane Library, and PeDRO databases were investigated. Randomized clinical trials evaluating RAGT efficacy on post-stroke survivor balance with Berg Balance Scale (BBS) or Timed Up and Go test (TUG) were searched. Meta-regression analyses were performed, considering weekly sessions, single-session duration, and robotic device used. RESULTS A total of 18 trials have been included. BBS pre-post treatment mean difference is higher in RAGT-treated patients, with a pMD of 2.17 (95% CI 0.79; 3.55). TUG pre-post mean difference is in favor of RAGT, but not statistically, with a pMD of -0.62 (95%CI - 3.66; 2.43). Meta-regression analyses showed no relevant association, except for TUG and treatment duration (β = -1.019, 95% CI - 1.827; -0.210, p-value = 0.0135). CONCLUSIONS RAGT efficacy is equal to traditional therapy, while the combination of the two seems to lead to better outcomes than each individually performed. Robot-assisted balance training should be the focus of experimentation in the following years, given the great results in the first available trials. Given the massive heterogeneity of included patients, trials with more strict inclusion criteria (especially time from stroke) must be performed to finally define if and when RAGT is superior to traditional therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Loro
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Correspondence: or
| | - Margherita Beatrice Borg
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Marco Battaglia
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Angelo Paolo Amico
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Polyclinic of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Roberto Antenucci
- Rehabilitation Unit, Castel San Giovanni Hospital, 29015 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Paolo Benanti
- Theology Department, Pontifical Gregorian University, 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Michele Bertoni
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, ASST Sette Laghi, 21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Luciano Bissolotti
- Casa di Cura Domus Salutis, Fondazione Teresa Camplani, 25100 Brescia, Italy
| | - Paolo Boldrini
- Robotic Rehabilitation Section, Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (SIMFER), 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Bonaiuti
- Robotic Rehabilitation Section, Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (SIMFER), 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Thomas Bowman
- Neurorehabilitation Department, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Marianna Capecci
- Experimental and Clinic Medicine Department, Università Politecnica delle Marche (UNIVPM), 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Enrico Castelli
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Cavalli
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Centro Giusti, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Cinone
- Unit of Spasticity and Movement Disorders, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Lucia Cosenza
- Rehabilitation Unit, Department of Rehabilitation, “Santi Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo” National Hospital, 15122 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Rita Di Censo
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Di Stefano
- Robotic Rehabilitation Section, Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitative Medicine (SIMFER), 00187 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Draicchio
- Dipartimento Medicina, Epidemiologia, Igiene del Lavoro e Ambientale, Istituto Nazionale Assicurazione Infortuni sul Lavoro (INAIL), 00192 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Falabella
- Italian Federation of Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries (FISH), 00197 Rome, Italy
| | - Mirko Filippetti
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Silvia Galeri
- Neurorehabilitation Department, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Gimigliano
- Department of Physical and Mental Health and Prevention Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, 81100 Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Grigioni
- Department of New Technologies in Public Healthcare, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Invernizzi
- Translational Medicine, Dipartimento Attività Integrate Ricerca e Innovazione (DAIRI), Azienda Ospedaliera Santi Antonio e Biagio e Cesare Arrigo, 15122 Alessandria, Italy
| | - Johanna Jonsdottir
- Neurorehabilitation Department, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 20148 Milan, Italy
| | - Carmelo Lentino
- Rehabilitation Unit, Santa Corona Hospital, 17027 Pietra Ligure, Italy
| | - Perla Massai
- Tuscany Rehabilitation Clinic, 52025 Montevarchi, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzoleni
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Polytechnic University of Bari, 70126 Bari, Italy
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, 56025 Pontedera, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzon
- Azienda Unità Locale Socio Sanitaria Euganea (AULSS 6), 35100 Padua, Italy
| | - Franco Molteni
- Rehabilitation Department, Valduce Villa Beretta Hospital, 23845 Costa Masnaga, Italy
| | - Sandra Morelli
- Department of New Technologies in Public Healthcare, Italian National Institute of Health (ISS), 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Morone
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Santa Lucia Foundation IRCCS, 00179 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Nardone
- Pediatric, Diagnostical and Clinical-Surgical Sciences Department, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Istituto Clinico-Scientifico Maugeri SPA IRCCS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniele Panzeri
- Pediatric Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Eugenio Medea, 23842 Bosisio Parini, Italy
| | - Maurizio Petrarca
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Santamato
- Unit of Spasticity and Movement Disorders, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Lorenza Scotti
- Department of Translational Medicine, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Michele Senatore
- Italian Association of Occupational Therapists (AITO), 00136 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Spina
- Unit of Spasticity and Movement Disorders, Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University Hospital of Foggia, 71100 Foggia, Italy
| | - Elisa Taglione
- Rehabilitation Unit, Istituto Nazionale Assicurazione Infortuni sul Lavoro (INAIL), 56048 Volterra, Italy
| | | | - Valentina Varalta
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Picelli
- Unit of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine, and Movement Sciences, University Hospital of Verona, University of Verona, 37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Alessio Baricich
- Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale “Amedeo Avogadro”, 28100 Novara, Italy
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, AOU Maggiore della Carità University Hospital, 28100 Novara, Italy
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Bergqvist M, Möller MC, Björklund M, Borg J, Palmcrantz S. The impact of visuospatial and executive function on activity performance and outcome after robotic or conventional gait training, long-term after stroke-as part of a randomized controlled trial. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0281212. [PMID: 36893079 PMCID: PMC9997896 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Visuospatial and executive impairments have been associated with poor activity performance sub-acute after stroke. Potential associations long-term and in relation to outcome of rehabilitation interventions need further exploration. AIMS To explore associations between visuospatial and executive function and 1) activity performance (mobility, self-care and domestic life) and 2) outcome after 6 weeks of conventional gait training and/or robotic gait training, long term (1-10 years) after stroke. METHODS Participants (n = 45), living with stroke affecting walking ability and who could perform the items assessing visuospatial/executive function included in the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA Vis/Ex) were included as part of a randomized controlled trial. Executive function was evaluated using ratings by significant others according to the Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX); activity performance using 6-minute walk test (6MWT), 10-meter walk test (10MWT), Berg balance scale, Functional Ambulation Categories, Barthel Index and Stroke Impact Scale. RESULTS MoCA Vis/Ex was significantly associated with baseline activity performance, long-term after stroke (r = .34-.69, p < .05). In the conventional gait training group, MoCA Vis/Ex explained 34% of the variance in 6MWT after the six-week intervention (p = 0.017) and 31% (p = 0.032) at the 6 month follow up, which indicate that a higher MoCA Vis/Ex score enhanced the improvement. The robotic gait training group presented no significant associations between MoCA Vis/Ex and 6MWT indicating that visuospatial/executive function did not affect outcome. Rated executive function (DEX) presented no significant associations to activity performance or outcome after gait training. CONCLUSION Visuospatial/executive function may significantly affect activity performance and the outcome of rehabilitation interventions for impaired mobility long-term after stroke and should be considered in the planning of such interventions. Patients with severely impaired visuospatial/executive function may benefit from robotic gait training since improvement was seen irrespective of visuospatial/executive function. These results may guide future larger studies on interventions targeting long-term walking ability and activity performance. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02545088) August 24, 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Bergqvist
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marika C Möller
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Björklund
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Jörgen Borg
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne Palmcrantz
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Danderyd University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Danderyd Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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15
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Mazzucchelli M, Mazzoleni D, Campanini I, Merlo A, Mazzoli D, Melegari C, Colombo V, Cerulli S, Piscitelli D, Perin C, Andrenelli E, Bizzarini E, Calabro RS, Carmignano SM, Cassio A, Chisari C, Dalise S, Fundaro C, Gazzotti V, Stampacchia G, Boldrini P, Mazzoleni S, Posteraro F, Benanti P, Castelli E, Draicchio F, Falabella V, Galeri S, Gimigliano F, Grigioni M, Mazzon S, Molteni F, Morone G, Petrarca M, Picelli A, Senatore M, Turchetti G, Bonaiuti D. Evidence-based improvement of gait in post-stroke patients following robot-assisted training: A systematic review. NeuroRehabilitation 2022; 51:595-608. [PMID: 36502342 DOI: 10.3233/nre-220024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recovery of walking after stroke is a priority goal for recovering autonomy. In the last years robotic systems employed for Robotic Assisted Gait Training (RAGT) were developed. However, literature and clinical practice did not offer standardized RAGT protocol or pattern of evaluation scales. OBJECTIVE This systematic review aimed to summarize the available evidence on the use of RAGT in post-stroke, following the CICERONE Consensus indications. METHODS The literature search was conducted on PubMed, Cochrane Library and PEDro, including studies with the following criteria: 1) adult post-stroke survivors with gait disability in acute/subacute/chronic phase; 2) RAGT as intervention; 3) any comparators; 4) outcome regarding impairment, activity, and participation; 5) both primary studies and reviews. RESULTS Sixty-one articles were selected. Data about characteristics of patients, level of disability, robotic devices used, RAGT protocols, outcome measures, and level of evidence were extracted. CONCLUSION It is possible to identify robotic devices that are more suitable for specific phase disease and level of disability, but we identified significant variability in dose and protocols. RAGT as an add-on treatment seemed to be prevalent. Further studies are needed to investigate the outcomes achieved as a function of RAGT doses delivered.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniele Mazzoleni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Isabella Campanini
- Department of Neuromotor and Rehabilitation, LAM-Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Andrea Merlo
- Department of Neuromotor and Rehabilitation, LAM-Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy.,Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory, Sol et Salus Ospedale Privato Accreditato, Rimini, Italy
| | - Davide Mazzoli
- Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory, Sol et Salus Ospedale Privato Accreditato, Rimini, Italy
| | | | | | - Simona Cerulli
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Piscitelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Cecilia Perin
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.,San Donato Group, Istituti Clinici Zucchi, Monza, Italy
| | - Elisa Andrenelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Emiliana Bizzarini
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Spinal Cord Unit, Gervasutta Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
| | | | | | - Anna Cassio
- Spinal Cord Unit and Intensive Rehabilitation Medicine, Ospedale di Fiorenzuola d'Arda, AUSL Piacenza, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Carmelo Chisari
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Neurorehabiltation Section, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefania Dalise
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Neurorehabiltation Section, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cira Fundaro
- Neurophysiopathology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS Montescano, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Gazzotti
- Centro Protesi Vigorso di Budrio, Istituto Nazionale Assicurazione Infortuni sul Lavoro (INAIL), Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Boldrini
- Italian Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (SIMFER), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzoleni
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Politecnico di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Federico Posteraro
- Department of Rehabilitation, Versilia Hospital - AUSL12, Viareggio, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Castelli
- Department of Paediatric Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Draicchio
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, INAIL, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Falabella
- Italian Federation of Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries (FAIP Onlus), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Gimigliano
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Grigioni
- National Center for Innovative Technologies in Public Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzon
- Rehabilitation Unit, ULSS (Local Health Authority) Euganea, Camposampiero Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Franco Molteni
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center, Valduce Hospital, Lecco, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Petrarca
- Movement Analysis and Robotics Laboratory (MARlab), IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Picelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Senatore
- Associazione Italiana dei Terapisti Occupazionali (AITO), Rome, Italy
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Siviy C, Baker LM, Quinlivan BT, Porciuncula F, Swaminathan K, Awad LN, Walsh CJ. Opportunities and challenges in the development of exoskeletons for locomotor assistance. Nat Biomed Eng 2022; 7:456-472. [PMID: 36550303 DOI: 10.1038/s41551-022-00984-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Exoskeletons can augment the performance of unimpaired users and restore movement in individuals with gait impairments. Knowledge of how users interact with wearable devices and of the physiology of locomotion have informed the design of rigid and soft exoskeletons that can specifically target a single joint or a single activity. In this Review, we highlight the main advances of the past two decades in exoskeleton technology and in the development of lower-extremity exoskeletons for locomotor assistance, discuss research needs for such wearable robots and the clinical requirements for exoskeleton-assisted gait rehabilitation, and outline the main clinical challenges and opportunities for exoskeleton technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Siviy
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Lauren M Baker
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Brendan T Quinlivan
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Franchino Porciuncula
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Krithika Swaminathan
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Louis N Awad
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences: Sargent, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Conor J Walsh
- John A Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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17
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Kolářová B, Šaňák D, Hluštík P, Kolář P. Randomized Controlled Trial of Robot-Assisted Gait Training versus Therapist-Assisted Treadmill Gait Training as Add-on Therapy in Early Subacute Stroke Patients: The GAITFAST Study Protocol. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12121661. [PMID: 36552120 PMCID: PMC9775673 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12121661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The GAITFAST study (gait recovery in patients after acute ischemic stroke) aims to compare the effects of treadmill-based robot-assisted gait training (RTGT) and therapist-assisted treadmill gait training (TTGT) added to conventional physical therapy in first-ever ischemic stroke patients. GAITFAST (Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT04824482) was designed as a single-blind single-center prospective randomized clinical trial with two parallel groups and a primary endpoint of gait speed recovery up to 6 months after ischemic stroke. A total of 120 eligible and enrolled participants will be randomly allocated (1:1) in TTGT or RTGT. All enrolled patients will undergo a 2-week intensive inpatient rehabilitation including TTGT or RTGT followed by four clinical assessments (at the beginning of inpatient rehabilitation 8-15 days after stroke onset, after 2 weeks, and 3 and 6 months after the first assessment). Every clinical assessment will include the assessment of gait speed and walking dependency, fMRI activation measures, neurological and sensorimotor impairments, and gait biomechanics. In a random selection (1:2) of the 120 enrolled patients, multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data will be acquired and analyzed. This study will provide insight into the mechanisms behind poststroke gait behavioral changes resulting from intensive rehabilitation including assisted gait training (RTGT or TTGT) in early subacute IS patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Kolářová
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital Olomouc, I.P. Pavlova 6, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc and University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Correspondence:
| | - Daniel Šaňák
- Comprehensive Stroke Centre, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Olomouc, I.P. Pavlova 6, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Hluštík
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc and University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kolář
- Department of Rehabilitation, University Hospital Olomouc, I.P. Pavlova 6, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacký University Olomouc and University Hospital Olomouc, 779 00 Olomouc, Czech Republic
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18
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Niewolak K, Pecyna P, Piaskowska J, Piejko L, Marszałek W, Baumgart M, Bula A, Polak A. Stationary rehabilitation robot and functional electrostimulation for the treatment of patients in the initial six months after stroke: a randomized controlled trial. MEDICAL SCIENCE PULSE 2022. [DOI: 10.5604/01.3001.0016.0865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Results from studies investigating the effects of rehabilitation robots, including those using robots combined with functional electrostimulation (FES), on gait quality and postural control post-stroke are conflicting. Therefore, the evidence supporting the use of this approach to rehabilitation remains inconclusive and further research is required into how robotic therapy and FES can improve gait function and postural control at different times after stroke. Aim of the study: To gain knowledge on the effectiveness of stationary robotic exercises, and robotic exercises combined with FES of the lower extremity muscles, on activities of daily living, gait quality, postural control, and quality of life, in people who were between one and six months post-stroke. Material and Methods: A randomized controlled clinical pilot study was conducted. Forty-three post-stroke patients hospitalized at a rehabilitation center were randomly assigned to the following three groups: the GEO Group, for whom stationary robotic exercises were provided, the GEO+FES Group, for whom stationary robotic exercises were provided in combination with FES, and the Control Group, for whom conventional overground gait training was provided. Exercises were undertaken by all groups for 20 minutes a day, six days a week, for three weeks. In addition, all patients were provided with basic post-stroke therapy based on the principles of best clinical practice. All patients were assessed for stroke symptoms before and after therapy using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), for independence in activities of daily living using the Barthel Index, and for quality of life using the Stroke Impact Scale Questionnaire. Static and dynamic postural control and gait performance were assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, the Timed Up and Go Test, the Functional Reach Test, and the 10 Meter Walk Test. Static postural control and gait quality were also assessed using a treadmill with a stabilometric platform. Results. Exercising on a stationary robot, both with and without FES of the lower extremity muscles, contributed to a statistically significant reduction in stroke symptoms (NIHSS, p<0.05). Additionally, exercising on a stationary robot without FES application significantly improved patient quality of life (p<0.05). However, these effects were not significantly different between the experimental and control groups. Conclusions. Stationary robotic exercise, either with or without FES, can be used as a substitute for traditional overground gait training to reduce stroke symptoms and improve quality of life in the first six months post-stroke. They can also be used as exercises to augment standard post-stroke therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Niewolak
- Medical and Rehabilitation Center Solanki, Inowroclaw, Poland
| | - Paula Pecyna
- Medical and Rehabilitation Center Solanki, Inowroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Laura Piejko
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Wojciech Marszałek
- Institute of Sport Sciences, Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Mariusz Baumgart
- Department of Normal Anatomy, The Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, The Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Bula
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
| | - Anna Polak
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, Academy of Physical Education, Katowice, Poland
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Lin YN, Huang SW, Kuan YC, Chen HC, Jian WS, Lin LF. Hybrid robot-assisted gait training for motor function in subacute stroke: a single-blind randomized controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2022; 19:99. [PMID: 36104706 PMCID: PMC9476570 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-022-01076-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) is a practical treatment that can complement conventional rehabilitation by providing high-intensity repetitive training for patients with stroke. RAGT systems are usually either of the end-effector or exoskeleton types. We developed a novel hybrid RAGT system that leverages the advantages of both types. Objective This single-blind randomized controlled trial evaluated the beneficial effects of the novel RAGT system both immediately after the intervention and at the 3-month follow-up in nonambulatory patients with subacute stroke. Methods We recruited 40 patients with subacute stroke who were equally randomized to receive conventional rehabilitation either alone or with the addition of 15 RAGT sessions. We assessed lower-extremity motor function, balance, and gait performance by using the following tools: active range of motion (AROM), manual muscle test (MMT), the Fugl–Meyer Assessment (FMA) lower-extremity subscale (FMA-LE) and total (FMA-total), Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment (POMA) balance and gait subscores, and the 3-m and 6-m walking speed and Timed Up and Go (TUG) tests. These measurements were performed before and after the intervention and at the 3-month follow-up. Results Both groups demonstrated significant within-group changes in the AROM, MMT, FMA-LE, FMA-total, PASS, BBS, POMA, TUG, and 3-m and 6-m walking speed tests before and after intervention and at the 3-month follow-up (p < 0.05). The RAGT group significantly outperformed the control group only in the FMA-LE (p = 0.014) and total (p = 0.002) assessments. Conclusion Although the novel hybrid RAGT is effective, strong evidence supporting its clinical effectiveness relative to controls in those with substantial leg dysfunction after stroke remains elusive. Trial registration The study was registered with an International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number, ISRCTN, ISRCTN15088682. Registered retrospectively on September 16, 2016, at https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN15088682
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Xie L, Yoon BH, Park C, You J(SH. Optimal Intervention Timing for Robotic-Assisted Gait Training in Hemiplegic Stroke. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12081058. [PMID: 36009121 PMCID: PMC9405763 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12081058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to determine the best intervention time (acute, subacute, and chronic stages) for Walkbot robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) rehabilitation to improve clinical outcomes, including sensorimotor function, balance, cognition, and activities of daily living, in hemiparetic stroke patients. Thirty-six stroke survivors (acute stage group (ASG), n = 11; subacute stage group (SSG), n = 15; chronic stage group (CSG), n = 10) consistently received Walkbot RAGT for 30 min/session, thrice a week, for 4 weeks. Six clinical outcome variables, including the Fugl–Meyer Assessment (FMA), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and Mini-Mental State Examination, were examined before and after the intervention. Significant differences in the FMA, BBS, TIS, and MBI were observed between the ASG and the SSG or CSG. A significant time effect was observed for all variables, except for the MAS, in the ASG and SSG, whereas significant time effects were noted for the FMA, BBS, and TIS in the CSG. Overall, Walkbot RAGT was more favorable for acute stroke patients than for those with subacute or chronic stroke. This provides the first clinical evidence for the optimal intervention timing for RAGT in stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingchao Xie
- Sports Movement Artificial Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
| | - Bu Hyun Yoon
- Sports Movement Artificial Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
| | - Chanhee Park
- Sports Movement Artificial Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
| | - Joshua (Sung) H. You
- Sports Movement Artificial Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju 26493, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-33-760-2476; Fax: +82-33-760-2496
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21
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Yu CS, Nam YG, Kwon BS. Comparison of high-intensive and low-intensive electromechanical-assisted gait training by Exowalk® in patients over 3-month post-stroke. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2022; 14:126. [PMID: 35818062 PMCID: PMC9275251 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-022-00515-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study was conducted to assess the effect of electromechanical-assisted gait training intensity on walking ability in patients over 3-month post-stroke. METHODS Data from two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were collected under the same study design of assessment and intervention, excluding intervention time per session. After matching the inclusion criteria of two RCTs, the experimental groups of each RCT were defined as low-intensive (LI) and high-intensive (HI) group according to the intervention time per session. Primary outcome was the difference of the change in Functional Ambulatory Categories (FAC) between LI and HI gait training. Secondary outcomes were the difference of changes in mobility, walking speed, walking capacity, leg-muscle strength, balance and daily activity evaluated with Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI), 10 m walk test (10MWT), 6-min walk test (6MWT), Motricity Index (MI), Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Modified Barthel Index (MBI) respectively. RESULTS The FAC improved after gait training in both groups. The secondary outcomes also improved in both groups except RMI and MI in HI group. The change of all outcomes were not different between groups except RMI. The change of RMI in the LI group was greater than that in the HI group statistically, but it did not meet minimal clinically important difference. CONCLUSIONS The improvement of walking ability after LI or HI gait training was not different if providing the same total gait training time. By providing the electromechanical gait training intensively, we could shorten the gait training period to improve walking ability and customize the training program according to the patient training abilities. TRIAL REGISTRATION Name of the registry: Clinical Research Information Service. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER No. KCT0002195(RCT1), No. KCT0002552(RCT2). Date of registration: 10/04/2016(RCT1), 10/05/2017(RCT2). URL of the trial registry record: https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Seon Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, Dongguk University, Seoul, 04620, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeon-Gyo Nam
- Institute of Posture Science, School of Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Bum Sun Kwon
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, School of Medicine, Dongguk University, Seoul, 04620, Republic of Korea. .,Institute of Posture Science, School of Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of Korea. .,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Dongguk University Ilsan Hospital, 27, Dongguk-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10326, Republic of Korea.
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22
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Adjustable Parameters and the Effectiveness of Adjunct Robot-Assisted Gait Training in Individuals with Chronic Stroke. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19138186. [PMID: 35805845 PMCID: PMC9265951 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19138186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The aims of this study were (1) to compare the effect of robot-assisted gait orthosis (RAGO) plus conventional physiotherapy with the effect of conventional therapy alone on functional outcomes, including balance, walking ability, muscle strength, daily activity, and cognition, in chronic stroke patients, and (2) to determine the association of adjustable parameters of RAGO on functional outcomes. Adjustable parameters of RAGO included guidance force, treadmill speed, and body-weight support. This retrospective cohort study enrolled 32 patients with chronic stroke. Of these, 16 patients received RAGO plus conventional physiotherapy (RAGO group), and 16 patients received conventional physiotherapy alone (control group). Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale, walking ability using the Functional Ambulation Category, muscle strength using the Motricity Index, daily activity using the Barthel Index, and cognition using the Mini-Mental State Examination. The scores were assessed before and after training. The Mini–Mental State Examination and the Berg Balance Scale increased significantly in both groups, whereas improvements in the Motricity Index and the Barthel Index were only observed in the RAGO group after intervention. During RAGO training, reducing guidance force and body-weight support assistance was associated with improvements in the Barthel Index, whereas higher treadmill walking speed was associated with improvements in the Berg Balance Scale. Our study found that RAGO combination therapy resulted in improvements in more functional outcomes than did conventional training alone. The adjustable parameters of the RAGO training were partly associated with training outcomes.
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23
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Taki S, Iwamoto Y, Imura T, Mitsutake T, Tanaka R. Effects of gait training with the Hybrid Assistive Limb on gait ability in stroke patients: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. J Clin Neurosci 2022; 101:186-192. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Efficacy of electromechanical-assisted gait training on clinical walking function and gait symmetry after brain injury of stroke: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep 2022; 12:6880. [PMID: 35477986 PMCID: PMC9046288 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10889-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Electromechanical-assisted gait training may be an effective intervention to promote motor recovery after brain injury. However, many studies still have difficulties in clarifying the difference between electromechanical-assisted gait training and conventional gait training. To evaluate the effectiveness of electromechanical-assisted gait training compared to that of conventional gait training on clinical walking function and gait symmetry of stroke patients. We randomly assigned patients with stroke (n = 144) to a control group (physical therapist-assisted gait training) and an experimental group (electromechanical gait training). Both types of gait training were done for 30 min each day, 5 days a week for 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was the change in functional ambulatory category (FAC). Secondary endpoints were clinical walking functions and gait symmetries of swing time and step length. All outcomes were measured at baseline (pre-intervention) and at 4 weeks after the baseline (post-intervention). FAC showed significant improvement after the intervention, as did clinical walking functions, in both groups. The step-length asymmetry improved in the control group, but that in the experimental group and the swing-time asymmetry in both groups did not show significant improvement. In the subgroup analysis of stroke duration of 90 days, FAC and clinical walking functions showed more significant improvement in the subacute group than in the chronic group. However, gait symmetries did not show any significant changes in either the subacute or the chronic group. Electromechanically assisted gait training by EXOWALK was as effective as conventional gait training with a physiotherapist. Although clinical walking function in the subacute group improved more than in the chronic group, gait asymmetry did not improve for either group after gait training. Trial registration: KCT0003411 Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS), Republic of Korea.
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van Dellen F, Labruyère R. Settings matter: a scoping review on parameters in robot-assisted gait therapy identifies the importance of reporting standards. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2022; 19:40. [PMID: 35459246 PMCID: PMC9034544 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-022-01017-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lokomat therapy for gait rehabilitation has become increasingly popular. Most evidence suggests that Lokomat therapy is equally effective as but not superior to standard therapy approaches. One reason might be that the Lokomat parameters to personalize therapy, such as gait speed, body weight support and Guidance Force, are not optimally used. However, there is little evidence available about the influence of Lokomat parameters on the effectiveness of the therapy. Nevertheless, an appropriate reporting of the applied therapy parameters is key to the successful clinical transfer of study results. The aim of this scoping review was therefore to evaluate how the currently available clinical studies report Lokomat parameter settings and map the current literature on Lokomat therapy parameters. Methods and results A systematic literature search was performed in three databases: Pubmed, Scopus and Embase. All primary research articles performing therapy with the Lokomat in neurologic populations in English or German were included. The quality of reporting of all clinical studies was assessed with a framework developed for this particular purpose. We identified 208 studies investigating Lokomat therapy in patients with neurologic diseases. The reporting quality was generally poor. Less than a third of the studies indicate which parameter settings have been applied. The usability of the reporting for a clinical transfer of promising results is therefore limited. Conclusion Although the currently available evidence on Lokomat parameters suggests that therapy parameters might have an influence on the effectiveness, there is currently not enough evidence available to provide detailed recommendations. Nevertheless, clinicians should pay close attention to the reported therapy parameters when translating research findings to their own clinical practice. To this end, we propose that the quality of reporting should be improved and we provide a reporting framework for authors as a quality control before submitting a Lokomat-related article. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12984-022-01017-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florian van Dellen
- Sensory-Motor Systems Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, ETH Zurich, Tannenstrasse 1, 8092, Zurich, Switzerland. .,Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, 8910, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland. .,Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Rob Labruyère
- Swiss Children's Rehab, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Mühlebergstrasse 104, 8910, Affoltern am Albis, Switzerland.,Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032, Zurich, Switzerland
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Jarbandhan A, Toelsie J, Veeger D, Bipat R, Vanhees L, Buys R. Feasibility of a home-based physiotherapy intervention to promote post-stroke mobility: A randomized controlled pilot study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0256455. [PMID: 35255091 PMCID: PMC8901054 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Home-based physiotherapy interventions to improve post-stroke mobility are successful in high-income countries. These programs require less resources compared to center-based programs. However, feasibility of such an intervention in a low and middle-income setting remains unknown. Therefore, the SunRISe (Stroke Rehabilitation In Suriname) study aimed to assess feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a home-based semi-supervised physiotherapy intervention to promote post-stroke mobility in a low resource setting. Design Prospective randomized controlled trial. Methods Chronic stroke patients were recruited and randomized into either an intervention group (IG (N = 20)) or a control group (CG (N = 10)). The IG received a 3-days-a-week home-based physiotherapy program that was supervised in the first 4 weeks and tele-supervised during the second 4 weeks. The physiotherapy program consisted of walking as well as functional and mobilization exercises. The CG received usual care. Feasibility outcome measures included adherence, patient satisfaction and safety. Efficacy measures included functional exercise tolerance (six-minute walking test (6MWT), functional balance (Berg Balance Score (BBS), upper extremity (UE) function (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) Questionnaire), and UE strength ((non-)paretic handgrip (HG) strength). Two-way analysis of variance was used for data analysis. Results Thirty participants (61.8 ± 9.2 years old, 13 men) were enrolled in the study. The intervention was completed by 14 participants (70%). Adherence was affected by rainy season associated infrastructural problems (n = 2), the medical status of participants (n = 3) and insufficient motivation to continue the program without direct supervision (n = 1). No adverse events were noted and participants were satisfied with the program. Functional exercise tolerance (57.2 ± 67.3m, p = 0.02) and UE function (-9.8 ± 15.2, p = 0.04) improved in the IG compared to no change in the CG. HG strength was unaltered and a ceiling effect occurred for BBS. Conclusion Our home-based semi-supervised physiotherapy intervention seems safe, associated with moderate to high levels of engagement and patient satisfaction and results in functional improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jerry Toelsie
- Dept. of Physiology, Anton de Kom University of Suriname, Paramaribo, Suriname
| | - DirkJan Veeger
- Dept. of Biomechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Robbert Bipat
- Dept. of Physiology, Anton de Kom University of Suriname, Paramaribo, Suriname
| | - Luc Vanhees
- Dept. of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Roselien Buys
- Dept. of Rehabilitation Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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Zhao CG, Ju F, Sun W, Jiang S, Xi X, Wang H, Sun XL, Li M, Xie J, Zhang K, Xu GH, Zhang SC, Mou X, Yuan H. Effects of Training with a Brain-Computer Interface-Controlled Robot on Rehabilitation Outcome in Patients with Subacute Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Neurol Ther 2022; 11:679-695. [PMID: 35174449 PMCID: PMC9095806 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-022-00333-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stroke is always associated with a difficult functional recovery process. A brain-computer interface (BCI) is a technology which provides a direct connection between the human brain and external devices. The primary aim of this study was to determine whether training with a BCI-controlled robot can improve functions in patients with subacute stroke. METHODS Subacute stroke patients aged 32-68 years with a course of 2 weeks to 3 months were randomly assigned to the BCI group or to the sham group for a 4-week course. The primary outcome measures were Loewenstein Occupational Therapy Cognitive Assessment (LOCTA) and Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Lower Extremity (FMA-LE). Secondary outcome measures included Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Balance (FMA-B), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and motor-evoked potential (MEP). RESULTS A total of 28 patients completed the study. Both groups showed a significant increase in mean LOCTA (sham: P < 0.001, Cohen's d = - 2.972; BCI: P < 0.001, Cohen's d = - 4.266) and FMA-LE (sham: P < 0.001, Cohen's d = - 3.178; BCI: P < 0.001, Cohen's d = - 3.063) scores. The LOCTA scores in the BCI group were 14.89% higher than in the sham group (P = 0.049, Cohen's d = - 0.580). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of FMA-B (P = 0.363, Cohen's d = - 0.252), FAC (P = 0.363), or MBI (P = 0.493, Cohen's d = - 0.188) scores. The serum levels of BDNF were significantly higher within the BCI group (P < 0.001, Cohen's d = - 1.167), and the MEP latency decreased by 3.75% and 4.71% in the sham and BCI groups, respectively. CONCLUSION Training with a BCI-controlled robot combined with traditional physiotherapy promotes cognitive function recovery, and enhances motor functions of the lower extremity in patients with subacute stroke. These patients also showed increased secretion of BDNF. TRIAL REGISTRATION Chinese clinical trial registry: ChiCTR-INR-17012874.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Guang Zhao
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Fen Ju
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Shan Jiang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao Xi
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiao-Long Sun
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Min Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jun Xie
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Kai Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Guang-Hua Xu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Si-Cong Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Xiang Mou
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China
| | - Hua Yuan
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, China.
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Stage 2: Who Are the Best Candidates for Robotic Gait Training Rehabilitation in Hemiparetic Stroke? J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10235715. [PMID: 34884417 PMCID: PMC8658177 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10235715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to compare the effects of robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) in patients with FAC < 2 (low initial functional ambulation category [LFAC]) and FAC ≥ 2 (high initial functional ambulation category [HFAC]) on sensorimotor and spasticity, balance and trunk stability, the number of steps and walking distance in subacute hemiparetic stroke. Fifty-seven patients with subacute hemiparetic stroke (mean age, 63.86 ± 12.72 years; 23 women) were assigned to two groups. All patients received a 30-min Walkbot-assisted gait training session, 3 times/week, for 6 weeks. Clinical outcomes included scores obtained on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) scale, Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), trunk impairment scale (TIS), and the number of walking steps and walking distance. Analysis of covariance and analysis of variance were conducted at p < 0.05. Significant main effects of time in both groups on number of walking steps and distance (p < 0.05) were observed, but not in MAS (p> 0.05). Significant changes in FMA, BBS, and TIS scores between groups (p < 0.05) were observed. Significant main effects of time on BBS and TIS were demonstrated (p < 0.05). Our study shows that RAGT can maximize improvement in the functional score of FMA, BBS, TIS, steps, and distance during neurorehabilitation of subacute stroke patients regardless of their FAC level.
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Tanaka H, Nankaku M, Kikuchi T, Nishi H, Nishikawa T, Yonezawa H, Kitamura G, Takagi Y, Miyamoto S, Ikeguchi R, Matsuda S. Effects of periodic robot rehabilitation using the Hybrid Assistive Limb for a year on gait function in chronic stroke patients. J Clin Neurosci 2021; 92:17-21. [PMID: 34509247 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2021.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Using a robot for gait training in stroke patients has attracted attention for the last several decades. Previous studies reported positive effects of robot rehabilitation on gait function in the short term. However, the long-term effects of robot rehabilitation for stroke patients are still unclear. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the long-term effects of periodic gait training using the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) on gait function in chronic stroke patients. Seven chronic stroke patients performed 8 gait training sessions using the HAL 3 times every few months. The maximal 10-m walk test and the 2-minute walking distance (2MWD) were measured before the first intervention and after the first, second, and third interventions. Gait speed, stride length, and cadence were calculated from the 10-m walk test. Repeated one-way analysis of variance showed a significant main effect on evaluation time of gait speed (F = 7.69, p < 0.01), 2MWD (F = 7.52, p < 0.01), stride length (F = 5.24, p < 0.01), and cadence (F = 8.43, p < 0.01). The effect sizes after the first, second, and third interventions compared to pre-intervention in gait speed (d = 0.39, 0.52, and 0.59) and 2MWD (d = 0.35, 0.46, and 0.57) showed a gradual improvement of gait function at every intervention. The results of the present study showed that gait function of chronic stroke patients improved over a year with periodic gait training using the HAL every few months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Tanaka
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Human Health Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Manabu Nankaku
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kikuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hidehisa Nishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital Organization Kyoto Medical Center, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Toru Nishikawa
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Honami Yonezawa
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Gakuto Kitamura
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yasushi Takagi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokushima University Graduate School of Medicine, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Ikeguchi
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Shuichi Matsuda
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, 54 Shogoin-Kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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Baronchelli F, Zucchella C, Serrao M, Intiso D, Bartolo M. The Effect of Robotic Assisted Gait Training With Lokomat® on Balance Control After Stroke: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Neurol 2021; 12:661815. [PMID: 34295298 PMCID: PMC8289887 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.661815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Disturbances of balance control are common after stroke, affecting the quality of gait and increasing the risk of falls. Because balance and gait disorders may persist also in the chronic stage, reducing individual independence and participation, they represent primary goals of neurorehabilitation programs. For this purpose, in recent years, numerous technological devices have been developed, among which one of the most widespread is the Lokomat®, an actuated exoskeleton that guide the patient's limbs, simulating a symmetrical bilateral gait. Preliminary evidence suggests that beyond gait parameters, robotic assisted gait training may also improve balance. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review was to summarize evidence about the effectiveness of Lokomat® in improving balance in stroke patients. Methods: Randomized controlled trials published between January 1989 and August 2020, comparing Lokomat® training to conventional therapy for stroke patients, were retrieved from seven electronic databases. Balance, assessed by means of validated clinical scales, was considered as outcome measure. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the studies. The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (no. CRD42020197531). Results: After the removal of the duplicates, according to the inclusion criteria, 13 studies were selected, involving 445 subacute or chronic stroke patients. Eleven papers contributed to three meta-analyses. Favorable results for recovery of balance in stroke survivors treated with Lokomat® were shown using Timed Up and Go (pooled mean difference = −3.40, 95% CI −4.35 to −2.44; p < 0.00001) and Rivermead Mobility Index as outcome measures (pooled mean difference = 0.40, 95% CI 0.26–0.55; p < 0.00001). Inconclusive results were found when balance was measured by means of the Berg Balance Scale (pooled mean difference = 0.17, 95% CI −0.26 to 0.60; p = 0.44). Conclusions: Overall, most studies have shown beneficial effects of Lokomat® on balance recovery for stroke survivors, at least comparable to conventional physical therapy. However, due to the limited number of studies and their high heterogeneity, further research is needed to draw more solid and definitive conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariano Serrao
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome Polo Pontino, Latina, Italy
| | - Domenico Intiso
- Unit of Neuro-Rehabilitation and Rehabilitation Medicine, Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Bartolo
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Department of Rehabilitation, HABILITA Zingonia, Ciserano, Italy
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Li DX, Zha FB, Long JJ, Liu F, Cao J, Wang YL. Effect of Robot Assisted Gait Training on Motor and Walking Function in Patients with Subacute Stroke: A Random Controlled Study. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2021; 30:105807. [PMID: 33895428 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2021.105807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robot-assisted gait training has been confirmed to have beneficial effect on the rehabilitation of stroke patients. An exoskeleton robot, named BEAR-H1, is designed to help stroke patients with walking disabilities. METHODS 17 subjects in experimental group and 15 subjects in control group completed the study. The experimental group received 30 minutes of BEAR-H1 assisted gait training(BAGT), and the control group received 30 minutes of conventional training, 5 times/week for 4weeks. All subjects were evaluated with 6-minute walk test (6MWT), Fugl-Meyer Assessment for lower extremity (FMA-LE), Functional Ambulatory Classification (FAC), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), and gait analysis at baseline and after 4 weeks intervention. RESULTS The improvements of 6MWT, FMA-LE, gait speed, cadence, step length and cycle duration in BAGT group were more noticeable than in the control group. However, there was no difference in the assessment of MAS between two groups. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that BAGT is an effective intervention to improve the motor and walking ability during 4 weeks training for subacute stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Xia Li
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, China.
| | - Fu-Bing Zha
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, China.
| | - Jian-Jun Long
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, China.
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, China.
| | - Jia Cao
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, China.
| | - Yu-Long Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, China.
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Nedergård H, Arumugam A, Sandlund M, Bråndal A, Häger CK. Effect of robotic-assisted gait training on objective biomechanical measures of gait in persons post-stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2021; 18:64. [PMID: 33863345 PMCID: PMC8052671 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-021-00857-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robotic-Assisted Gait Training (RAGT) may enable high-intensive and task-specific gait training post-stroke. The effect of RAGT on gait movement patterns has however not been comprehensively reviewed. The purpose of this review was to summarize the evidence for potentially superior effects of RAGT on biomechanical measures of gait post-stroke when compared with non-robotic gait training alone. METHODS Nine databases were searched using database-specific search terms from their inception until January 2021. We included randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of RAGT (e.g., using exoskeletons or end-effectors) on spatiotemporal, kinematic and kinetic parameters among adults suffering from any stage of stroke. Screening, data extraction and judgement of risk of bias (using the Cochrane Risk of bias 2 tool) were performed by 2-3 independent reviewers. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria were used to evaluate the certainty of evidence for the biomechanical gait measures of interest. RESULTS Thirteen studies including a total of 412 individuals (mean age: 52-69 years; 264 males) met eligibility criteria and were included. RAGT was employed either as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies in a subacute or chronic phase post-stroke. The included studies showed a high risk of bias (n = 6), some concerns (n = 6) or a low risk of bias (n = 1). Meta-analyses using a random-effects model for gait speed, cadence, step length (non-affected side) and spatial asymmetry revealed no significant differences between the RAGT and comparator groups, while stride length (mean difference [MD] 2.86 cm), step length (affected side; MD 2.67 cm) and temporal asymmetry calculated in ratio-values (MD 0.09) improved slightly more in the RAGT groups. There were serious weaknesses with almost all GRADE domains (risk of bias, consistency, directness, or precision of the findings) for the included outcome measures (spatiotemporal and kinematic gait parameters). Kinetic parameters were not reported at all. CONCLUSION There were few relevant studies and the review synthesis revealed a very low certainty in current evidence for employing RAGT to improve gait biomechanics post-stroke. Further high-quality, robust clinical trials on RAGT that complement clinical data with biomechanical data are thus warranted to disentangle the potential effects of such interventions on gait biomechanics post-stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Nedergård
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Ashokan Arumugam
- Department of Physiotherapy, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Marlene Sandlund
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna Bråndal
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Charlotte K Häger
- Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Physiotherapy, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Clinical Practice Guideline to Improve Locomotor Function Following Chronic Stroke, Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury, and Brain Injury. J Neurol Phys Ther 2021; 44:49-100. [PMID: 31834165 DOI: 10.1097/npt.0000000000000303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with acute-onset central nervous system (CNS) injury, including stroke, motor incomplete spinal cord injury, or traumatic brain injury, often experience lasting locomotor deficits, as quantified by decreases in gait speed and distance walked over a specific duration (timed distance). The goal of the present clinical practice guideline was to delineate the relative efficacy of various interventions to improve walking speed and timed distance in ambulatory individuals greater than 6 months following these specific diagnoses. METHODS A systematic review of the literature published between 1995 and 2016 was performed in 4 databases for randomized controlled clinical trials focused on these specific patient populations, at least 6 months postinjury and with specific outcomes of walking speed and timed distance. For all studies, specific parameters of training interventions including frequency, intensity, time, and type were detailed as possible. Recommendations were determined on the basis of the strength of the evidence and the potential harm, risks, or costs of providing a specific training paradigm, particularly when another intervention may be available and can provide greater benefit. RESULTS Strong evidence indicates that clinicians should offer walking training at moderate to high intensities or virtual reality-based training to ambulatory individuals greater than 6 months following acute-onset CNS injury to improve walking speed or distance. In contrast, weak evidence suggests that strength training, circuit (ie, combined) training or cycling training at moderate to high intensities, and virtual reality-based balance training may improve walking speed and distance in these patient groups. Finally, strong evidence suggests that body weight-supported treadmill training, robotic-assisted training, or sitting/standing balance training without virtual reality should not be performed to improve walking speed or distance in ambulatory individuals greater than 6 months following acute-onset CNS injury to improve walking speed or distance. DISCUSSION The collective findings suggest that large amounts of task-specific (ie, locomotor) practice may be critical for improvements in walking function, although only at higher cardiovascular intensities or with augmented feedback to increase patient's engagement. Lower-intensity walking interventions or impairment-based training strategies demonstrated equivocal or limited efficacy. LIMITATIONS As walking speed and distance were primary outcomes, the research participants included in the studies walked without substantial physical assistance. This guideline may not apply to patients with limited ambulatory function, where provision of walking training may require substantial physical assistance. SUMMARY The guideline suggests that task-specific walking training should be performed to improve walking speed and distance in those with acute-onset CNS injury although only at higher intensities or with augmented feedback. Future studies should clarify the potential utility of specific training parameters that lead to improved walking speed and distance in these populations in both chronic and subacute stages following injury. DISCLAIMER These recommendations are intended as a guide for clinicians to optimize rehabilitation outcomes for persons with chronic stroke, incomplete spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury to improve walking speed and distance.
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Mehrholz J, Thomas S, Kugler J, Pohl M, Elsner B. Electromechanical-assisted training for walking after stroke. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2020; 10:CD006185. [PMID: 33091160 PMCID: PMC8189995 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd006185.pub5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electromechanical- and robot-assisted gait-training devices are used in rehabilitation and might help to improve walking after stroke. This is an update of a Cochrane Review first published in 2007 and previously updated in 2017. OBJECTIVES Primary • To determine whether electromechanical- and robot-assisted gait training versus normal care improves walking after stroke Secondary • To determine whether electromechanical- and robot-assisted gait training versus normal care after stroke improves walking velocity, walking capacity, acceptability, and death from all causes until the end of the intervention phase SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched 6 January 2020); the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2020 Issue 1), in the Cochrane Library; MEDLINE in Ovid (1950 to 6 January 2020); Embase (1980 to 6 January 2020); the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; 1982 to 20 November 2019); the Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED; 1985 to 6 January 2020); Web of Science (1899 to 7 January 2020); SPORTDiscus (1949 to 6 January 2020); the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro; searched 7 January 2020); and the engineering databases COMPENDEX (1972 to 16 January 2020) and Inspec (1969 to 6 January 2020). We handsearched relevant conference proceedings, searched trials and research registers, checked reference lists, and contacted trial authors in an effort to identify further published, unpublished, and ongoing trials. SELECTION CRITERIA We included all randomised controlled trials and randomised controlled cross-over trials in people over the age of 18 years diagnosed with stroke of any severity, at any stage, in any setting, evaluating electromechanical- and robot-assisted gait training versus normal care. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently selected trials for inclusion, assessed methodological quality and risk of bias, and extracted data. We assessed the quality of evidence using the GRADE approach. The primary outcome was the proportion of participants walking independently at follow-up. MAIN RESULTS We included in this review update 62 trials involving 2440 participants. Electromechanical-assisted gait training in combination with physiotherapy increased the odds of participants becoming independent in walking (odds ratio (random effects) 2.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.51 to 2.69; 38 studies, 1567 participants; P < 0.00001; I² = 0%; high-quality evidence) and increased mean walking velocity (mean difference (MD) 0.06 m/s, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.10; 42 studies, 1600 participants; P = 0.004; I² = 60%; low-quality evidence) but did not improve mean walking capacity (MD 10.9 metres walked in 6 minutes, 95% CI -5.7 to 27.4; 24 studies, 983 participants; P = 0.2; I² = 42%; moderate-quality evidence). Electromechanical-assisted gait training did not increase the risk of loss to the study during intervention nor the risk of death from all causes. Results must be interpreted with caution because (1) some trials investigated people who were independent in walking at the start of the study, (2) we found variation between trials with respect to devices used and duration and frequency of treatment, and (3) some trials included devices with functional electrical stimulation. Post hoc analysis showed that people who are non-ambulatory at the start of the intervention may benefit but ambulatory people may not benefit from this type of training. Post hoc analysis showed no differences between the types of devices used in studies regarding ability to walk but revealed differences between devices in terms of walking velocity and capacity. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS People who receive electromechanical-assisted gait training in combination with physiotherapy after stroke are more likely to achieve independent walking than people who receive gait training without these devices. We concluded that eight patients need to be treated to prevent one dependency in walking. Specifically, people in the first three months after stroke and those who are not able to walk seem to benefit most from this type of intervention. The role of the type of device is still not clear. Further research should consist of large definitive pragmatic phase 3 trials undertaken to address specific questions about the most effective frequency and duration of electromechanical-assisted gait training, as well as how long any benefit may last. Future trials should consider time post stroke in their trial design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Mehrholz
- Department of Public Health, Dresden Medical School, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Simone Thomas
- Wissenschaftliches Institut, Klinik Bavaria Kreischa, Kreischa, Germany
| | - Joachim Kugler
- Department of Public Health, Dresden Medical School, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marcus Pohl
- Neurological Rehabilitation, Helios Klinik Schloss Pulsnitz, Pulsnitz, Germany
| | - Bernhard Elsner
- Department of Public Health, Dresden Medical School, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Improving abnormal gait patterns by using a gait exercise assist robot (GEAR) in chronic stroke subjects: A randomized, controlled, pilot trial. Gait Posture 2020; 82:45-51. [PMID: 32882517 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2020.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Revised: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the Gait Exercise Assist Robot (GEAR) has been reported to effectively improve gait of hemiplegic patients, no study has investigated its use in chronic stroke patients. It is possible to facilitate gait reorganization by gait training with less compensation using the GEAR even in chronic stroke patients. RESEARCH QUESTION What are the effects of GEAR training on the abnormal gait patterns of chronic stroke subjects? METHODS Subjects were randomly assigned to either the GEAR group (n = 8) or the treadmill group (n = 11). Each group underwent 20 sessions (40 min/day, 5 days/week). The changes in the 10 types of abnormal gait patterns were evaluated using a three-dimensional motion analysis system and the Global Rating of Change (GRC) scale before and after the intervention, and at 1-month and 3-month follow-up assessment. RESULTS In the GEAR group, hip hiking at a 1-month follow-up assessment was markedly lesser than that before the intervention, and the excessive hip external rotation at 3-month follow-up assessment was notably lesser than that after the intervention, but the change in excessive hip external rotation was in the normal range. In the treadmill group, knee extensor thrust at a 1-month follow-up assessment was strikingly lesser than that before the intervention, but the difference was in the normal range. In the GEAR group, the GRC scale scores were considerably higher after the intervention, at a 1-month, and 3-month follow-up assessment than those before the intervention. But, in the treadmill group, only the GRC scale score at a 1-month follow-up assessment was visibly higher than that before the intervention. SIGNIFICANCE Gait training using the GEAR may be more effective than treadmill-training in improving the swing phase in chronic stroke subjects.
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Taki S, Imura T, Iwamoto Y, Imada N, Tanaka R, Araki H, Araki O. Effects of Exoskeletal Lower Limb Robot Training on the Activities of Daily Living in Stroke Patients: Retrospective Pre-Post Comparison Using Propensity Score Matched Analysis. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2020; 29:105176. [PMID: 32912532 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2020.105176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE There is limited evidence of gait training using newly developed exoskeletal lower limb robot called Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) on the function and ability to perform ADL in stroke patients. In clinical settings, we frequently find it challenging to conduct a randomized controlled trial; thus, a large-scale observational study using propensity score analysis methods is a feasible alternative. The present study aimed to determine whether exoskeletal lower limb robot training improved the ability to perform ADL in stroke patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Acute stroke patients who were admitted to our facility from April 2016 to March 2017 were evaluated in the conventional rehabilitation period (CRP) and those admitted from April 2017 to June 2019 were evaluated in the HAL rehabilitation period (HRP). We started a new gait rehabilitation program using HAL at the midpoint of these two periods. The functional outcomes or ADL ability outcomes of the patients in the CRP and the subsequent HRP were compared using propensity score matched analyses. RESULTS Propensity score matching analysis was performed for 108 stroke patients (63 from the CRP and 45 from the HRP), and 36 pairs were matched. The ADL ability, defined by the FIM scores and FIM score change, was significantly higher in patients admitted during the HRP. In addition, more stroke patients obtained practical walking ability during hospitalization in the HRP. CONCLUSION Gait training using HAL affects the ADL ability and obtaining of practical walking ability of stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shingo Taki
- Department of Rehabilitation, Araki Neurosurgical Hospital, 2-8-7, Kogokita, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takeshi Imura
- Department of Rehabilitation, Araki Neurosurgical Hospital, 2-8-7, Kogokita, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Yuji Iwamoto
- Department of Rehabilitation, Araki Neurosurgical Hospital, 2-8-7, Kogokita, Hiroshima, Japan; Graduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naoki Imada
- Department of Rehabilitation, Araki Neurosurgical Hospital, 2-8-7, Kogokita, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Ryo Tanaka
- Graduate School of Integrated Arts and Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Hayato Araki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Araki Neurosurgical Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan.
| | - Osamu Araki
- Department of Neurosurgery, Araki Neurosurgical Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan.
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Park C, Oh-Park M, Dohle C, Bialek A, Friel K, Edwards D, Krebs HI, You JSH. Effects of innovative hip-knee-ankle interlimb coordinated robot training on ambulation, cardiopulmonary function, depression, and fall confidence in acute hemiplegia. NeuroRehabilitation 2020; 46:577-587. [PMID: 32538882 DOI: 10.3233/nre-203086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While Walkbot-assisted locomotor training (WLT) provided ample evidence on balance and gait improvements, the therapeutic effects on cardiopulmonary and psychological elements as well as fall confidence are unknown in stroke survivors. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to compare the effects of Walkbot locomotor training (WLT) with conventional locomotor training (CLT) on balance and gait, cardiopulmonary and psychological functions and fall confidence in acute hemiparetic stroke. METHODS Fourteen patients with acute hemiparetic stroke were randomized into either the WLT (60 min physical therapy + 30 min Walkbot-assisted gait training) or CLT (60 min physical therapy + 30 min gait training) groups, 7 days/week over 2 weeks. Clinical outcomes included the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), heart rate (HR), Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion (BRPE), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the activities-specific balance confidence (ABC) scale. The analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was conducted at P < 0.05. RESULTS ANCOVA showed that WLT showed superior effects, compared to CLT, on FAC, HR, BRPE, BDI-II, and ABC scale (P < 0.05), but not on BBS (P = 0.061). CONCLUSIONS Our results provide novel, promising clinical evidence that WLT improved balance and gait function as well as cardiopulmonary and psychological functions, and fall confidence in acute stroke survivors who were unable to ambulate independently.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanhee Park
- Department of Physical Therapy, Sports Movement Artificial-Intelligence Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Mooyeon Oh-Park
- Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, White Plains, NY, USA.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Health System, Bronx, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carolin Dohle
- Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, White Plains, NY, USA.,Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Health System, Bronx, New York, NY, USA
| | - Amy Bialek
- Burke Neurological Institute, White Plains, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Joshua Sung H You
- Department of Physical Therapy, Sports Movement Artificial-Intelligence Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea.,Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
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Ogino T, Kanata Y, Uegaki R, Yamaguchi T, Morisaki K, Nakano S, Domen K. Effects of gait exercise assist robot (GEAR) on subjects with chronic stroke: A randomized controlled pilot trial. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2020; 29:104886. [PMID: 32689628 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2020.104886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate whether gait training using the Gait Exercise Assist Robot (GEAR) is more effective for improving gait ability than treadmill gait training in chronic stroke subjects. DESIGN Subjects were randomly assigned to either the GEAR group (n = 8) or treadmill group (n = 11). Both groups received a training program of 20 sessions (5 days/week). The 10-m walk test, Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, 6-min walk test, the Medical Outcome Study 8-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-8), and Global Rating of Change (GRC) scales were administered at baseline (week 0), completion of training (week 4), 1-mo follow-up (week 8), and 3-mo follow-up (week 16). RESULTS Gait speed was significantly increased at completion of training and 1-mo follow-up compared with baseline in the GEAR group. Mean changes in TUG and 6-min walk were significantly greater in the GEAR group than in the treadmill group at completion of training compared to baseline. Furthermore, GRC scales were significantly increased at completion of training, 1-mo follow-up, and 3-mo follow-up compared with baseline in the GEAR group. CONCLUSION This study suggests that gait training using GEAR was more effective for improving gait ability than treadmill among subjects with chronic stroke. REGISTRATION OF CLINICAL TRIALS This study was registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network (No. UMIN000028042).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoyuki Ogino
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hyogo College of Medicine Sasayama Medical Center, Kurooka 5, Sasayama, Hyogo 669-2321, Japan.
| | - Yoshihiro Kanata
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hyogo College of Medicine Sasayama Medical Center, Kurooka 5, Sasayama, Hyogo 669-2321, Japan.
| | - Ryota Uegaki
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hyogo College of Medicine Sasayama Medical Center, Kurooka 5, Sasayama, Hyogo 669-2321, Japan.
| | - Tatuya Yamaguchi
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hyogo College of Medicine Sasayama Medical Center, Kurooka 5, Sasayama, Hyogo 669-2321, Japan.
| | - Katuhisa Morisaki
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hyogo College of Medicine Sasayama Medical Center, Kurooka 5, Sasayama, Hyogo 669-2321, Japan.
| | - Shuhei Nakano
- Department of Rehabilitation, Hyogo College of Medicine Sasayama Medical Center, Kurooka 5, Sasayama, Hyogo 669-2321, Japan.
| | - Kazuhisa Domen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine, Japan.
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Cespedes N, Munera M, Gomez C, Cifuentes CA. Social Human-Robot Interaction for Gait Rehabilitation. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2020; 28:1299-1307. [PMID: 32287000 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2020.2987428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Robot-assisted therapy for gait rehabilitation of patients with neurological disorders usually combines a body weight support system with a treadmill system. Lokomat is one of the most used devices for gait rehabilitation. This device allows therapists to focus on the patient and the therapy. However, this therapy session is based on multi-tasking processes, which are often difficult for a therapist to manage. In this work, a Socially Assistive Robot (SAR) was integrated into a neurorehabilitation program as a collaborator agent to promote patient engagement and performance during the therapy. This short-term study presents the effects comparing the social robot condition and control condition with a group of four neurological patients using repeated measurement design. As a remarkable result, patients improved thoracic 18.44% and cervical 32.23% posture on average with SAR assistance. This study demonstrated the feasibility of the integration of a social robot as a complement of gait rehabilitation programs.
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Reinforced Feedback in Virtual Environment for Plantar Flexor Poststroke Spasticity Reduction and Gait Function Improvement. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2019:6295263. [PMID: 31950046 PMCID: PMC6948277 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6295263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Ankle spasticity is a frequent phenomenon that limits functionality in poststroke patients. Objectives Our aim was to determine if there was decreased spasticity in the ankle plantar flex (PF) muscles in the plegic lower extremity (LE) and improvement of gait function in stroke patients after traditional rehabilitation (TR) in combination with virtual reality with reinforced feedback, which is termed “reinforced feedback virtual environment” (RFVE). Methods The evaluation, before and after treatment, of 10 hemiparetic patients was performed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Functional Ambulatory Category (FAC), and Functional Independence Measure (FIM). The intervention consisted of 1 hour/day of TR plus 1 hour/day of RFVE (5 days/week for 3 weeks; 15 sessions in total). Results The MAS and FAC reached statistical significance (P < 0.05). The changes in the FIM did not reach statistical significance (P=0.066). The analysis between the ischemic and haemorrhagic patients showed significant differences in favour of the haemorrhagic group in the FIM scale. A significant correlation between the FAC and the months after the stroke was established (P=−0.711). Indeed, patients who most increased their score on the FAC at the end of treatment were those who started the treatment earliest after stroke. Conclusions The combined treatment of TR and RFVE showed encouraging results regarding the reduction of spasticity and improvement of gait function. An early commencement of the treatment seems to be ideal, and future research should increase the sample size and assessment tools.
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Ryan JL, Wright FV, Levac DE. Exploring Physiotherapists' Use of Motor Learning Strategies in Gait-Based Interventions for Children with Cerebral Palsy. Phys Occup Ther Pediatr 2020; 40:79-92. [PMID: 31154883 PMCID: PMC6864228 DOI: 10.1080/01942638.2019.1622623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Aim: This study investigated physiotherapists' experiences using motor learning strategies (MLS) in gait-based interventions for children with cerebral palsy (CP). The objectives were to explore how child characteristics, physiotherapist decision-making, and treatment approach influenced intentional MLS use.Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight physiotherapists who provided gym- and/or Lokomat-based treatment to children with CP. Interviews were analyzed using directed content analysis and a modified constant comparison method.Results: Three themes described their experiences: (1) MLS use is driven by the unique aspects of the child, physiotherapist, and intervention; (2) The use and description of motor learning content varies among physiotherapists; and (3) The Lokomat is "the same but different." Child characteristics were at the forefront of MLS selection in both interventions. The terminology used to describe MLS use varied considerably among therapists. They used similar clinical decision-making in gym- and Lokomat-based interventions.Conclusions: Conscious reflection on the factors affecting MLS use could facilitate related clinical decision-making in physiotherapy interventions for children with CP. Increased awareness of MLS and use of a structured framework for reporting MLS are required to promote intentional MLS use and generate CP-specific evidence-based MLS research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Ryan
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - F Virginia Wright
- Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle E Levac
- Department of Physical Therapy, Movement and Rehabilitation Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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Kim YH. Robotic assisted rehabilitation therapy for enhancing gait and motor function after stroke. PRECISION AND FUTURE MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.23838/pfm.2019.00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Body weight supported treadmill vs. overground gait training for acute stroke gait rehabilitation. Int J Rehabil Res 2019; 42:270-274. [DOI: 10.1097/mrr.0000000000000357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Kim HY, Shin JH, Yang SP, Shin MA, Lee SH. Robot-assisted gait training for balance and lower extremity function in patients with infratentorial stroke: a single-blinded randomized controlled trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2019; 16:99. [PMID: 31358017 PMCID: PMC6664752 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-019-0553-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Balance impairments are common in patients with infratentorial stroke. Although robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) exerts positive effects on balance among patients with stroke, it remains unclear whether such training is superior to conventional physical therapy (CPT). Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of RAGT combined with CPT and compared them with the effects of CPT only on balance and lower extremity function among survivors of infratentorial stroke. Methods This study was a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial with a crossover design conducted at a single rehabilitation hospital. Patients (n = 19; 16 men, three women; mean age: 47.4 ± 11.6 years) with infratentorial stroke were randomly allocated to either group A (4 weeks of RAGT+CPT, followed by 4 weeks of CPT+CPT) or group B (4 weeks of CPT+CPT followed by 4 weeks of RAGT+CPT). Changes in dynamic and static balance as indicated by Berg Balance Scale scores were regarded as the primary outcome measure. Outcome measures were evaluated for each participant at baseline and after each 4-week intervention period. Results No significant differences in outcome-related variables were observed between group A and B at baseline. In addition, no significant time-by-group interactions were observed for any variables, indicating that intervention order had no effect on lower extremity function or balance. Significantly greater improvements in secondary functional outcomes such as lower extremity Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA-LE) and scale for the assessment and rating of ataxia (SARA) were observed following the RAGT+CPT intervention than following the CPT+CPT intervention. Conclusion RAGT produces clinically significant improvements in balance and lower extremity function in individuals with infratentorial stroke. Thus, RAGT may be useful for patients with balance impairments secondary to other pathologies. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02680691. Registered 09 February 2016; retrospectively registered. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12984-019-0553-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ha Yeon Kim
- Translational Research Center for Rehabilitation Robots, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Joon-Ho Shin
- Translational Research Center for Rehabilitation Robots, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, South Korea. .,Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, 58, Samgaksan-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, 01022, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sung Phil Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, 58, Samgaksan-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, 01022, Republic of Korea
| | - Min A Shin
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, 58, Samgaksan-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, 01022, Republic of Korea
| | - Stephanie Hyeyoung Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, 58, Samgaksan-ro, Gangbuk-gu, Seoul, 01022, Republic of Korea
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Tanaka H, Nankaku M, Nishikawa T, Yonezawa H, Mori H, Kikuchi T, Nishi H, Takagi Y, Miyamoto S, Ikeguchi R, Matsuda S. A follow-up study of the effect of training using the Hybrid Assistive Limb on Gait ability in chronic stroke patients. Top Stroke Rehabil 2019; 26:491-496. [PMID: 31318323 DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2019.1640001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Recently, use of the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) that is effective for improvement of gait ability in chronic stroke patients has been reported. However, how long the effects are maintained remains unknown. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether the effect of gait training using the HAL on gait ability was maintained for 3 months after the intervention. Methods: A longitudinal, observational study with an intervention for a single group that adhered to the STROBE guidelines was performed. Nine chronic stroke patients were enrolled in this study. The patients performed gait training sessions using the HAL, 2-5 sessions/week for 3 weeks. Gait speed, stride length, cadence, and 2-minute walk distance (2MWD) were measured before and after intervention and at 3-month follow-up. The clinical trial registration number of this study is UMIN000012764 R000014756. Results: Compared to the initial status, gait speed (p = .02), stride length (p = .03), cadence (p = .01), and 2MWD (p < .05) were significantly increased immediately after the intervention. Moreover, gait speed (p < .01), cadence (p = .03), and 2MWD (p = .02) remained significantly higher 3 months after the intervention. There were no significant changes in all outcome measures between after intervention and at 3-month follow-up. Conclusions: This study showed that gait training using the HAL resulted in significant improvement of gait ability after the intervention and the effect was maintained for 3 months after the training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Tanaka
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Manabu Nankaku
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Toru Nishikawa
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Honami Yonezawa
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Hiroki Mori
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Takayuki Kikuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Hidehisa Nishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Yasushi Takagi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokushima University Graduate School of Medicine , Tokushima , Japan
| | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Ryosuke Ikeguchi
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital , Kyoto , Japan.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine , Kyoto , Japan
| | - Shuichi Matsuda
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital , Kyoto , Japan.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine , Kyoto , Japan
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Zheng QX, Ge L, Wang CC, Ma QS, Liao YT, Huang PP, Wang GD, Xie QL, Rask M. Robot-assisted therapy for balance function rehabilitation after stroke: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Nurs Stud 2019; 95:7-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Tanaka H, Nankaku M, Nishikawa T, Hosoe T, Yonezawa H, Mori H, Kikuchi T, Nishi H, Takagi Y, Miyamoto S, Ikeguchi R, Matsuda S. Spatiotemporal gait characteristic changes with gait training using the hybrid assistive limb for chronic stroke patients. Gait Posture 2019; 71:205-210. [PMID: 31078010 DOI: 10.1016/j.gaitpost.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robotic rehabilitation has been attracting attention as a means to carry out "intensive", "repetitive", "task-specific", gait training. The newly developed robotic device, the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL), is thought to have the possibility of having an excellent effect on gait speed improvement over the conventional automatic programed assist robot. The purpose of this study was to investigate the spatiotemporal characteristics related to gait speed improvement using the HAL in chronic stroke patients. RESEARCH QUESTION To investigate the effects of robotic gait training on gait speed and gait parameters. METHODS An observational study with an intervention for single group was used. Intervention was conducted in University Hospital. Eleven chronic stroke patients were enrolled in this study. The patients performed 8 gait training sessions using the HAL, 2-5 sessions/week for 3 weeks. Gait speed, stride length, cadence, time of gait cycle (double-limb stance phases and single-limb stance phases) and time asymmetry index were measured before and after intervention. RESULTS After intervention, gait speed, stride length, and cadence were significantly improved (Effect size = 0.39, 0.29, and 0.29), the affected initial double-limb stance phase was significantly shortened (from 15.8 ± 3.46%-13.3 ± 4.20%, p = .01), and the affected single-limb stance phase was significantly lengthened (from 21.8±7.02%-24.5±7.95%, p < .01). The time asymmetry index showed a tendency to improve after intervention (from 22.9±11.8-17.6±9.62, p = .06). There was a significant correlation between gait speed and the stride length increase rate (r = .72, p = .01). SIGNIFICANCE This study showed that increasing stride length with lengthening of the affected single-stance phase by gait training using the HAL improved gait speed in chronic stroke patients. However, the actual contributions on HAL cannot be separated from gait training because this study is an observational research without a control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Tanaka
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, Japan.
| | | | | | - Takuya Hosoe
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, Japan
| | | | - Hiroki Mori
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kikuchi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Hidehisa Nishi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Yasushi Takagi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Tokushima University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Susumu Miyamoto
- Department of Neurosurgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Ikeguchi
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Shuichi Matsuda
- Rehabilitation Unit, Kyoto University Hospital, Japan; Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
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Combination of Exoskeletal Upper Limb Robot and Occupational Therapy Improve Activities of Daily Living Function in Acute Stroke Patients. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2019; 28:2018-2025. [PMID: 31047819 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2019.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous studies have suggested that upper limb rehabilitation using therapeutic robots improves motor function of stroke patients. However, the effect of upper limb robotic rehabilitation on improving functioning in activities of daily living (ADL) remains unclear. The present study aimed to determine whether upper limb rehabilitation using single joint Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL-SJ) affects ADL function and the use of a hemiparetic arm in ADLs of acute stroke patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twelve acute stroke patients participated in the study and were randomly divided into group A or group B. The patients in group A followed an A-B-A-B design and those in group B followed a B-A-B-A design. The patients received combination HAL-SJ and occupational therapy during A and conventional occupational therapy during B. RESULTS Upper limb motor function and ADLs, in particular, dressing the upper body, were improved during combination HAL-SJ and occupational therapy. Interestingly, the use of a hemiparetic arm in daily life evaluated using the motor activity log was also significantly improved during A in group A. CONCLUSIONS Combination HAL-SJ and occupational therapy affects ADL function and real use of a hemiparetic arm in the daily life of acute stroke patients.
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Three-Dimensional Balance Training Using Visual Feedback on Balance and Walking Ability in Subacute Stroke Patients: A Single-Blinded Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2019; 28:994-1000. [PMID: 30612892 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2018.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trunk-activating exercises for balance are important because trunk weakness is relevant to the functional performance of individuals with stroke. This study aimed to explore the effects of three-dimensional balance training using visual feedback on balance and walking ability in subacute stroke patients. METHODS Twenty-four participants with subacute stroke were randomly assigned to the experimental or control group. Each group underwent twenty sessions (30 min/day, 5 days/week for 4 weeks). Patients were assessed using the Berg balance scale, gait parameters (gait speed, cadence, step length, and double-limb support period) using GAITRite, and activity-specific balance confidence score, before and after the intervention. RESULTS The three-dimensional balance training using visual feedback exhibited greater changes in the Berg balance scale, gait speed, cadence, step length, double-limb support period, and activity-specific balance confidence compared with the control group. Statistical analyses showed significant differences in Berg balance scale (P = .012; 95% CI, 2.585-6.415), gait speed (P = .001; 95% CI, .079-.155), cadence (P = .001; 95% CI, 1.622-4.392), step length (P = .003; 95% CI, 1.864-3.908), double-limb support period (P = .003; 95% CI, -3.259 to -0.761) and activity-specific confidence (P = .008; 95% CI, 6.964-14.036) between groups. CONCLUSION Three-dimensional balance training using visual feedback may be more effective than conventional training in improving balance, walking ability, and activity-specific balance confidence in patients with subacute stroke.
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Yun N, Joo MC, Kim SC, Kim MS. Robot-assisted gait training effectively improved lateropulsion in subacute stroke patients: a single-blinded randomized controlled trial. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2018; 54:827-836. [PMID: 30507899 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.18.05077-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some stroke patients are known to use nonparetic extremities to push toward the paretic side, a movement known as lateropulsion. Lateropulsion impairs postural balance and interferes with rehabilitation. AIM The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) on recovery from lateropulsion compared with conventional physical therapy (CPT). DESIGN This was a single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. SETTING Participants were recruited from a rehabilitation department of a tertiary hospital. POPULATION Patients diagnosed with lateropulsion after a stroke. METHODS Thirty-six subacute stroke patients with lateropulsion were recruited. RAGT was performed in the experimental group (N.=18), and CPT was performed in the control group (N.=18). The participants received treatment for 3 weeks, 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week. Outcomes were assessed before the intervention (T0), immediately after the intervention (T1), and 4 weeks after the intervention (T2). The Burke Lateropulsion Scale (BLS) was evaluated as a primary outcome to assess the severity of lateropulsion. The secondary outcome measures were the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke (PASS), and Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SSEP). RESULTS After intervention, the experimental group showed greater improvement in the BLS score at T1 (experimental group: Δ=-1.9, control group: Δ=-1.1, P=0.032) and T2 (experimental group: Δ=-2.8, control group: Δ=-6.5, P<0.001) than the control group. In addition, the BBS was significantly improved in the experimental group at T1 (experimental group: Δ=+7.1, control group: Δ=+1.9, P<0.001) and T2 (experimental group: Δ=+13.0, control group: Δ=+6.1, P<0.001). There were significant between-group differences in the PASS at T1 (experimental group: Δ=+3.2, control group: Δ=+1.6, P=0.014) and T2 (experimental group: Δ=+8.8, control group: Δ=+4.3, P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS RAGT ameliorated lateropulsion and balance function more effectively than CPT in subacute stroke patients. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT Early RAGT may be recommended for patients with lateropulsion after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nari Yun
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Min C Joo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Chan Kim
- Department of Statistics, Pukyong National University, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Su Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Wonkwang University School of Medicine, Iksan, Republic of Korea -
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