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Choi JY, Kim SK, Hong J, Park H, Yang SS, Park D, Song MK. Overground Gait Training With a Wearable Robot in Children With Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e2422625. [PMID: 39037815 PMCID: PMC11265136 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.22625] [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] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common developmental motor disorder in children. Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) using a wearable robot can provide intensive overground walking experience. Objective To investigate the effectiveness of overground RAGT in children with CP using an untethered, torque-assisted, wearable exoskeletal robot. Design, Setting, and Participants This multicenter, single-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted from September 1, 2021, to March 31, 2023, at 5 rehabilitation institutions in Korea. Ninety children with CP in Gross Motor Function Classification System levels II to IV were randomized. Intervention The RAGT group underwent 18 sessions of RAGT during 6 weeks, whereas the control group received standard physical therapy for the same number of sessions during the same period. Main Outcome and Measures The primary outcome measure was the Gross Motor Function Measure 88 (GMFM-88) score. Secondary outcome measures were the GMFM-66, Pediatric Balance Scale, selective control assessment of the lower extremity, Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory-Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT), 6-minute walking test scores (distance and oxygen consumption), muscle and fat mass via bioelectrical impedance analysis, and gait parameters measured via 3-dimensional analysis. All assessments were performed for all patients at baseline, at the end of the 6-week intervention, and after the 4-week follow-up. Results Of the 90 children (mean [SD] age, 9.51 [2.48] years; 49 [54.4%] male and 41 [45.6%] female) in the study, 78 (86.7%) completed the intervention, with 37 participants (mean [SD] age, 9.57 [2.38] years; 19 [51.4%] male) and 41 participants (mean [SD] age, 9.32 [2.37] years; 26 [63.4%] male) randomly assigned to the RAGT and control groups, respectively. Changes in the RAGT group significantly exceeded changes in the control group in GMFM-88 total (mean difference, 2.64; 95% CI, 0.50-4.78), GMFM-E (mean difference, 2.70; 95% CI, 0.08-5.33), GMFM-66 (mean difference, 1.31; 95% CI, 0.01-2.60), and PEDI-CAT responsibility domain scores (mean difference, 2.52; 95% CI, 0.42-4.63), indicating independence in daily living at postintervention assessment. At the 4-week follow-up, the RAGT group showed significantly greater improvements in balance control (mean difference, 1.48; 95% CI, 0.03-2.94) and Gait Deviation Index (mean difference, 6.48; 95% CI, 2.77-10.19) compared with the control group. Conclusions and Relevance In this randomized clinical trial, overground RAGT using a wearable robot significantly improved gross motor function and gait pattern. This new torque-assisted wearable exoskeletal robot, based on assist-as-needed control, may complement standard rehabilitation by providing adequate assistance and therapeutic support to children with CP. Trial Registration CRIS Identifier: KCT0006273.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ja Young Choi
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Seung Ki Kim
- Department and Rehabilitation Medicine, Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Yongin, Korea
| | - Juntaek Hong
- Department and Research Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hankyul Park
- Department and Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul Rehabilitation Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shin-seung Yang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Dongho Park
- George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta
- Institute for Robotics and Intelligent Machines, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta
| | - Min-Keun Song
- Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Hospital, Gwangju, Korea
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Igusa T, Uchida H, Tsuchiya K, Sema S, Kaneko S, Yoshita T, Nagai S, Kobayashi T, Akiba T, Tanaka Y, Kikuchi S, Hirao K. Effects of rhythmic auditory stimulation on gait speed in older adult inpatients in a convalescent rehabilitation ward: a pilot randomized controlled trial. Eur Geriatr Med 2024:10.1007/s41999-024-01010-0. [PMID: 38890234 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-024-01010-0] [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: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the impact of gait training with rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) on enhancing gait speed in older people admitted to a convalescent rehabilitation ward (CRW), compared to conventional gait training methods. METHODS The study was designed as a single-center, open-label, pilot, randomized, parallel-group study. Thirty older people admitted to CRW were divided into two groups: the experimental group, which received gait training with RAS (n = 15, females = 53.3%, mean age = 83.9, SD = 6.5), and the control group, which underwent usual gait training (n = 15, females = 60.0%, mean age = 81.3, SD = 8.4). Regardless of their assigned group, all participants underwent 30 min training sessions, five times a week, for 3 weeks. The primary outcome was the 10 m walk test (10mWT), and the secondary outcomes included the Medical Outcome Study 8-Item Short-Form Health Survey and the Japanese version of the modified Gait Efficacy Scale. All measurements were taken at baseline and again at week 3. RESULTS Results indicated that older people in CRWs in the experimental group showed significant improvements in their 10mWT (effect size - 1.02) compared to the control group. None of the secondary outcomes were significant. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of a gait practice intervention using RAS in a CRW. TRIAL REGISTRATION The University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) Registered 1 October 2022 (UMIN000049089).
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Igusa
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8514, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Uchida
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8514, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kurashiki Heisei Hospital, Kurashiki, Japan
| | - Kenji Tsuchiya
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nagano University of Health and Medicine, Nagano, Japan
| | - Shota Sema
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kaneko
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Taiki Yoshita
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Sakyo Nagai
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Takuya Kobayashi
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8514, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Japan Community Healthcare Organization, Gunma Chuo Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Takanari Akiba
- Department of Rehabilitation, Japan Community Healthcare Organization, Gunma Chuo Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yukiko Tanaka
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Senichiro Kikuchi
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8514, Japan
| | - Kazuki Hirao
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8514, Japan.
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Lim JH, Kang EY, Park SJ, Kim BG. Effects of robot rehabilitation on the motor function and gait in children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Exerc Rehabil 2024; 20:92-99. [PMID: 38973981 PMCID: PMC11222064 DOI: 10.12965/jer.2448186.093] [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: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
This study was to determine the effects of robot rehabilitation on motor function and gait in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and the effect of robot type. Inclusion criteria were children with any type of CP, robot rehabilitation studies, non-robot rehabilitation comparison groups, outcomes related to motor function and gait, and randomized controlled trials. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases were searched. Risk of bias was assessed using physiotherapy evidence database. Seven studies with a total of 228 participants were selected. Motor function was significantly improved in three studies comparing robot rehabilitation and control groups (standard mean difference [SMD], 0.79; 95% confidence intervals [CIs], 0.34-1.24; I 2=73%). Gait was not significantly improved in five studies comparing robot rehabilitation and control groups (SMD, 0.27; 95% CI, -0.09 to 0.63; I 2=45%). When comparing effects by robot type, robotic-assisted gate training (RAGT) showed significant improvements in both motor function (SMD, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.36-1.43; I 2=77%) and gait (SMD, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.12-1.11; I 2=44%). Robot rehabilitation effectively improved motor function, and among the robot types, RAGT was found to be effective in improving motor function and gait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Hyun Lim
- Department of Physical Therapy, Graduate School, Nambu University, Gwangju,
Korea
- Physical Therapy Room, Wise Rehabilitation Hospital, Gwangju,
Korea
| | - Eun-Young Kang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Kwangju Christian Hospital, Gwangju,
Korea
| | - Se-Ju Park
- Department of Rehabilitation, Songwon University, Gwangju,
Korea
| | - Byeong-Geun Kim
- Department of Physical Therapy, Nambu University, Gwangju,
Korea
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Li Y, Wang M, Wang L, Cao Y, Liu Y, Zhao Y, Yuan R, Yang M, Lu S, Sun Z, Zhou F, Qian Z, Kang H. Advances in the Application of AI Robots in Critical Care: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e54095. [PMID: 38801765 PMCID: PMC11165292 DOI: 10.2196/54095] [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: 10/29/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent epochs, the field of critical medicine has experienced significant advancements due to the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Specifically, AI robots have evolved from theoretical concepts to being actively implemented in clinical trials and applications. The intensive care unit (ICU), known for its reliance on a vast amount of medical information, presents a promising avenue for the deployment of robotic AI, anticipated to bring substantial improvements to patient care. OBJECTIVE This review aims to comprehensively summarize the current state of AI robots in the field of critical care by searching for previous studies, developments, and applications of AI robots related to ICU wards. In addition, it seeks to address the ethical challenges arising from their use, including concerns related to safety, patient privacy, responsibility delineation, and cost-benefit analysis. METHODS Following the scoping review framework proposed by Arksey and O'Malley and the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, we conducted a scoping review to delineate the breadth of research in this field of AI robots in ICU and reported the findings. The literature search was carried out on May 1, 2023, across 3 databases: PubMed, Embase, and the IEEE Xplore Digital Library. Eligible publications were initially screened based on their titles and abstracts. Publications that passed the preliminary screening underwent a comprehensive review. Various research characteristics were extracted, summarized, and analyzed from the final publications. RESULTS Of the 5908 publications screened, 77 (1.3%) underwent a full review. These studies collectively spanned 21 ICU robotics projects, encompassing their system development and testing, clinical trials, and approval processes. Upon an expert-reviewed classification framework, these were categorized into 5 main types: therapeutic assistance robots, nursing assistance robots, rehabilitation assistance robots, telepresence robots, and logistics and disinfection robots. Most of these are already widely deployed and commercialized in ICUs, although a select few remain under testing. All robotic systems and tools are engineered to deliver more personalized, convenient, and intelligent medical services to patients in the ICU, concurrently aiming to reduce the substantial workload on ICU medical staff and promote therapeutic and care procedures. This review further explored the prevailing challenges, particularly focusing on ethical and safety concerns, proposing viable solutions or methodologies, and illustrating the prospective capabilities and potential of AI-driven robotic technologies in the ICU environment. Ultimately, we foresee a pivotal role for robots in a future scenario of a fully automated continuum from admission to discharge within the ICU. CONCLUSIONS This review highlights the potential of AI robots to transform ICU care by improving patient treatment, support, and rehabilitation processes. However, it also recognizes the ethical complexities and operational challenges that come with their implementation, offering possible solutions for future development and optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Li
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Min Wang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Wang
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Cao
- The Second Hospital, Hebei Medical University, Hebei, China
| | - Yuyan Liu
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Yuan
- Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing, China
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mengmeng Yang
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Siqian Lu
- Beidou Academic & Research Center, Beidou Life Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhichao Sun
- Beidou Academic & Research Center, Beidou Life Science, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feihu Zhou
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhirong Qian
- Beidou Academic & Research Center, Beidou Life Science, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian, China
- The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongjun Kang
- The First Medical Centre, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
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Julien L, Moreau-Pernet G, Rochette E, Lemaire JJ, Pontier B, Bourrand S, Pereira B, Chassain C, Sontheimer A, Sarret C. Robot-assisted gait training improves walking and cerebral connectivity in children with unilateral cerebral palsy. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03240-1. [PMID: 38769400 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03240-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) is promising to help walking rehabilitation in cerebral palsy, but training-induced neuroplastic effects have little been investigated. METHODS Forty unilateral cerebral palsy children aged 4-18 years were randomly allocated in a monocentric study to ten 20-minute RAGT sessions with the G-EO system, five days a week (n = 20) or to a control group (who continued conventional care with six 30-minute physiotherapy sessions, three days a week) (n = 20), two weeks running, from September 2020 to December 2021. Clinical and MRI outcomes were compared before and one month after therapy. The primary outcome was gait speed. Secondary outcomes were a 6-minute walking test distance, Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88) dimensions D and E, Patient Global Impression of Improvement, resting-state functional connectivity within the sensorimotor network, and structural connectivity in the corticospinal tracts. RESULTS Gait speed and the 6-minute walking test distance improved more after RAGT. Resting-state functional connectivity increased after RAGT but decreased in controls between superior and lateral healthy or lateral injured sensorimotor networks. GMFM-88 and structural connectivity in corticospinal tracts were unchanged. Impression of improvement in children was better after RAGT. CONCLUSION Short-term benefit of repetitive RAGT on walking abilities and functional cerebral connectivity was found in unilateral cerebral palsy children. IMPACT STATEMENT Short-term repetitive robot-assisted gait training improves gait speed and walking resistance and increases cerebral functional connectivity in unilateral cerebral palsy. GMFM dimensions D and E were unchanged after short-term repetitive robot-assisted gait training in unilateral cerebral palsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Julien
- Department of Pediatrics, CRECHE, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Clermont Auvergne University, CNRS, Clermont Auvergne INP, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Emmanuelle Rochette
- Department of Pediatrics, CRECHE, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Jean-Jacques Lemaire
- Clermont Auvergne University, CNRS, Clermont Auvergne INP, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Department of Neurosurgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Bénédicte Pontier
- Department of Pediatrics, CRECHE, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Clermont Auvergne University, CNRS, Clermont Auvergne INP, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Department of Neurosurgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sacha Bourrand
- Clermont Auvergne University, CNRS, Clermont Auvergne INP, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Bruno Pereira
- Clinical Research Division, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Carine Chassain
- Clermont Auvergne University, CNRS, Clermont Auvergne INP, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Anna Sontheimer
- Clermont Auvergne University, CNRS, Clermont Auvergne INP, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- Department of Neurosurgery, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Catherine Sarret
- Department of Pediatrics, CRECHE, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
- Clermont Auvergne University, CNRS, Clermont Auvergne INP, Institut Pascal, Clermont-Ferrand, France.
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He Y, Xu Y, Hai M, Feng Y, Liu P, Chen Z, Duan W. Exoskeleton-Assisted Rehabilitation and Neuroplasticity in Spinal Cord Injury. World Neurosurg 2024; 185:45-54. [PMID: 38320651 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2024.01.167] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in neurological deficits below the level of injury, causing motor dysfunction and various severe multisystem complications. Rehabilitative training plays a crucial role in the recovery of individuals with SCI, and exoskeleton serves as an emerging and promising tool for rehabilitation, especially in promoting neuroplasticity and alleviating SCI-related complications. This article reviews the classifications and research progresses of medical exoskeletons designed for SCI patients and describes their performances in practical application separately. Meanwhile, we discuss their mechanisms for enhancing neuroplasticity and functional remodeling, as well as their palliative impacts on secondary complications. The potential trends in exoskeleton design are raised according to current progress and requirements on SCI rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yana He
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxuan Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Minghang Hai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Feng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Penghao Liu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Lab of Spinal Cord Injury and Functional Reconstruction, China International Neuroscience Institute(CHINA-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Zan Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Lab of Spinal Cord Injury and Functional Reconstruction, China International Neuroscience Institute(CHINA-INI), Beijing, China
| | - Wanru Duan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Lab of Spinal Cord Injury and Functional Reconstruction, China International Neuroscience Institute(CHINA-INI), Beijing, China.
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Arroyo-Fernández R, Menchero-Sánchez R, Pozuelo-Carrascosa DP, Romay-Barrero H, Fernández-Maestra A, Martínez-Galán I. Effectiveness of Body Weight-Supported Gait Training on Gait and Balance for Motor-Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med 2024; 13:1105. [PMID: 38398415 PMCID: PMC10888564 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13041105] [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: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review aims to analyse the effectiveness of body weight-supported gait training for improving gait and balance in patients with motor-incomplete spinal cord injuries. METHOD Relevant articles were systematically searched in electronic databases to identify randomised controlled trials of body weight-supported gait training (either with methods of robotic, manual, and functional electrical stimulation assistance) versus conventional physical therapy or no intervention. Subjects were >16 years-old with motor-incomplete spinal cord injury (AIS C or D). Primary outcomes were gait-related parameters (functionality, endurance, and speed) and balance. Quality of life was included as a secondary outcome. Articles were selected up to 31 December 2023. RESULTS Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria (n = 673). Nine studies used robotic assistance, four trials performed manual assistance, one study functional electrical stimulation assistance, and one trial performed the intervention without guidance. Robot-assisted body weight-supported gait training improved walking functionality (SMD = 1.74, CI 95%: 1.09 to 2.39), walking endurance (MD = 26.59 m, CI 95% = 22.87 to 30.31), and balance (SMD = 0.63, CI 95% = 0.24 to 1.02). CONCLUSIONS Body weight-supported gait training is not superior to conventional physiotherapy in gait and balance training in patients with motor-incomplete spinal cord injury. However, body weight-supported gait training with robotic assistance does improve walking functionality, walking endurance, and balance, but not walking speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Arroyo-Fernández
- Faculty of Physical Therapy and Nursing, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
- Water and Health Research Group (GIAS), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45004 Toledo, Spain
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Hospital General Universitario Nuestra Señora del Prado, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain
| | - Raquel Menchero-Sánchez
- Faculty of Physical Therapy and Nursing, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
- Water and Health Research Group (GIAS), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45004 Toledo, Spain
| | | | - Helena Romay-Barrero
- Faculty of Physical Therapy and Nursing, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
- Water and Health Research Group (GIAS), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45004 Toledo, Spain
| | - Araceli Fernández-Maestra
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Hospital for Paraplegics, 45004 Toledo, Spain
| | - Inés Martínez-Galán
- Faculty of Physical Therapy and Nursing, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071 Toledo, Spain
- Water and Health Research Group (GIAS), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45004 Toledo, Spain
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Huang L, Huang HL, Dang XW, Wang YJ. Effect of Body Weight Support Training on Lower Extremity Motor Function in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2024; 103:149-157. [PMID: 37535636 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000002320] [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: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of the study are to systematically evaluate the effect of body weight support training on lower extremity motor function(s) in patients with spinal cord injury and to compare the effect differences among three body weight support training methods. DESIGN PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, CBM, China Scientific Journal, and Wan Fang databases were searched until December 31, 2022. Meta-analysis and network meta-analysis were conducted using RevMan 5.4 and ADDIS 1.16.8. RESULTS Nineteen randomized controlled trials involving 864 patients were included. The meta-analysis showed that body weight support training could improve lower extremity motor scores according to the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury standard (mean difference = 6.38, 95% confidence interval = 3.96-8.80, P < 0.05), walking speed (standard mean difference = 0.77, 95% confidence interval = 0.52-1.02, P < 0.05), and modified Barthel Index scores (mean difference = 9.85, 95% confidence interval = 8.39-11.30, P < 0.05). The network meta-analysis showed no significant difference among the three body weight support training methods for improving lower extremity motor scores in patients with spinal cord injury. The best probability ranking of the body weight support training methods for improving lower extremity motor scores in patients with spinal cord injury was robot-assisted gait training ( P = 0.60), followed by aquatic exercise ( P = 0.21) and body weight support training ( P = 0.19). CONCLUSIONS Body weight support training can improve lower extremity motor score in patients with spinal cord injury. No significant difference was observed among the three body weight support training methods, but robot-assisted gait training may produce the best effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Huang
- From the College of Rehabilitation Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Changqing District, Jinan City, China
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Alashram AR. Effects of robotic therapy associated with noninvasive brain stimulation on motor function in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. J Spinal Cord Med 2024:1-16. [PMID: 38265422 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2024.2304921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Motor deficits are among the most common consequences of incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI). These impairments can affect patients' levels of functioning and quality of life. Combined robotic therapy and non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) have been used to improve motor impairments in patients with corticospinal tract lesions. OBJECTIVES To examine the effects of combined robotic therapy and NIBS on motor function post incomplete SCI. METHODS PubMed, SCOPUS, MEDLINE, PEDro, Web of Science, REHABDATA, CINAHL, and EMBASE were searched from inception until July 2023. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was employed to evaluate the selected studies quality. RESULTS Of 557 studies, five randomized trials (n = 122), with 25% of participants being females, were included in this review. The PEDro scores ranged from eight to nine, with a median score of nine. There were variations in treatment protocols and outcome measures, resulting in heterogeneous findings. The findings showed revealed evidence for the impacts of combined robotic therapy and NIBS on motor function in individuals with incomplete SCI. CONCLUSIONS Combined robotic training and NIBS may be safe for individuals with incomplete SCI. The existing evidence concerning its effects on motor outcomes in individuals with SCI is limited. Further experimental studies are needed to understand the effects of combined robotic training and NIBS on motor impairments in SCI populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anas R Alashram
- Department of Physiotherapy, Middle East University, Amman, Jordan
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy
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Widuch-Spodyniuk A, Tarnacka B, Korczyński B, Wiśniowska J. Impact of Robotic-Assisted Gait Therapy on Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in Patients with Subacute Spinal Cord Injuries (SCIs)-A Prospective Clinical Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7153. [PMID: 38002765 PMCID: PMC10672092 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12227153] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mood disorders, especially depression, and emotional difficulties such as anxiety are very common problems among patients with spinal cord injuries (SCIs). The lack of physical training may deteriorate their mental state, which, in turn, has a significant impact on their improvement in functioning. The aim of the present study was to examine the influence of innovative rehabilitation approaches involving robotic-assisted gait therapy (RAGT) on the depression and anxiety symptoms in patients with SCI. METHODS A total of 110 participants with subacute SCIs were enrolled in this single-center, single-blinded, single-arm, prospective study; patients were divided into experimental (robotic-assisted gait therapy (RAGT)) and control (conventional gait therapy with dynamic parapodium (DPT)) groups. They received five training sessions per week over 7 weeks. At the beginning and end of therapy, the severity of depression was assessed via the Depression Assessment Questionnaire (KPD), and that of anxiety symptoms was assessed via the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI X-1). RESULTS SCI patients in both groups experienced significantly lower levels of anxiety- and depression-related symptoms after completing the seven-week rehabilitation program (KPD: Z = 6.35, p < 0.001, r = 0.43; STAI X-1: Z = -6.20, p < 0.001, r = 0.42). In the RAGT group, post-rehabilitation measurements also indicated an improvement in psychological functioning (i.e., decreases in depression and anxiety and an increase in self-regulation (SR)). Significant results were noted for each variable (STAI X-1: Z = -4.93; KPD: Z = -5.26; SR: Z = -3.21). In the control group, there were also decreases in the effects on depression and state anxiety and an increase in self-regulation ability (STAI X-1: Z = -4.01; KPD: Z = -3.65; SR: Z = -2.83). The rehabilitation modality did not appear to have a statistically significant relationship with the magnitude of improvement in the Depression Assessment Questionnaire (KPD) (including self-regulation) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) scores. However, there were some significant differences when comparing the groups by the extent and depth of the injury and type of paralysis. Moreover, the study did not find any significant relationships between improvements in physical aspects and changes in psychological factors. CONCLUSIONS Subjects in the robotic-assisted gait therapy (RAGD) and dynamic parapodium training (DPT) groups experienced decreases in anxiety and depression after a 7-week rehabilitation program. However, the rehabilitation modality (DPT vs. RAGT) did not differentiate between the patients with spinal cord injuries in terms of the magnitude of this change. Our results suggest that individuals with severe neurological conditions and complete spinal cord injuries (AIS A, according to the Abbreviated Injury Scale classification) may experience greater benefits in terms of changes in the psychological parameters after rehabilitation with RAGT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Widuch-Spodyniuk
- Research Institute for Innovative Methods of Rehabilitation of Patients with Spinal Cord Injury in Kamien Pomorski, Health Resort Kamien Pomorski, 72-400 Kamień Pomorski, Poland; (A.W.-S.)
| | - Beata Tarnacka
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bogumił Korczyński
- Research Institute for Innovative Methods of Rehabilitation of Patients with Spinal Cord Injury in Kamien Pomorski, Health Resort Kamien Pomorski, 72-400 Kamień Pomorski, Poland; (A.W.-S.)
| | - Justyna Wiśniowska
- Department of Rehabilitation, Eleonora Reicher National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, 02-637 Warsaw, Poland;
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Perpetuini D, Russo EF, Cardone D, Palmieri R, De Giacomo A, Intiso D, Pellicano F, Pellegrino R, Merla A, Calabrò RS, Filoni S. Assessing the Impact of Electrosuit Therapy on Cerebral Palsy: A Study on the Users' Satisfaction and Potential Efficacy. Brain Sci 2023; 13:1491. [PMID: 37891858 PMCID: PMC10605024 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13101491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of electrosuit therapy in the clinical treatment of children with Cerebral Palsy, focusing on the effect of the therapy on spasticity and trunk control. Moreover, the compliance of caregivers with respect to the use of the tool was investigated. During the period ranging from 2019 to 2022, a total of 26 children (18 M and 8 F), clinically stable and affected by CP and attending the Neurorehabilitation Unit of the "Padre Pio Foundation and Rehabilitation Centers", were enrolled in this study. A subset of 12 patients bought or rented the device; thus, they received the administration of the EMS-based therapy for one month, whereas the others received only one-hour training to evaluate the feasibility (by the caregivers) and short-term effects. The Gross Motor Function Classification System was utilized to evaluate gross motor functions and to classify the study sample, while the MAS and the LSS were employed to assess the outcomes of the EMS-based therapy. Moreover, between 80% and 90% of the study sample were satisfied with the safety, ease of use, comfort, adjustment, and after-sales service. Following a single session of electrical stimulation with EMS, patients exhibited a statistically significant enhancement in trunk control. For those who continued this study, the subscale of the QUEST with the best score was adaptability (0.74 ± 0.85), followed by competence (0.67 ± 0.70) and self-esteem (0.59 ± 0.60). This study investigates the impact of the employment of the EMS on CP children's ability to maintain trunk control. Specifically, after undergoing a single EMS session, LSS showed a discernible improvement in children's trunk control. In addition, the QUEST and the PIADS questionnaires demonstrated a good acceptability and satisfaction of the garment by the patients and the caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Perpetuini
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy; (D.P.); (D.C.); (A.M.)
| | - Emanuele Francesco Russo
- Padre Pio Foundation and Rehabilitation Centers, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; (E.F.R.); (F.P.)
| | - Daniela Cardone
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy; (D.P.); (D.C.); (A.M.)
| | - Roberta Palmieri
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (R.P.); (A.D.G.)
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (R.P.); (A.D.G.)
| | - Domenico Intiso
- Unit of Neuro-Rehabilitation, IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; (D.I.); (S.F.)
| | - Federica Pellicano
- Padre Pio Foundation and Rehabilitation Centers, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; (E.F.R.); (F.P.)
| | - Raffaello Pellegrino
- Department of Scientific Research, Campus Ludes, Off-Campus Semmelweis University, 6912 Lugano, Switzerland;
| | - Arcangelo Merla
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy; (D.P.); (D.C.); (A.M.)
| | | | - Serena Filoni
- Unit of Neuro-Rehabilitation, IRCCS “Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza”, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy; (D.I.); (S.F.)
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12
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Muscolo GG, Di Pede F, Solero L, Nicolì A, Russo A, Fiorini P, Chiò A, Calvo A, Canosa A. Conceptual design of a biped-wheeled wearable machine for ALS patients. J Neurol 2023; 270:3632-3636. [PMID: 37010628 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-023-11678-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Francesca Di Pede
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Solero
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Angelo Nicolì
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandra Russo
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Paolo Fiorini
- Department of Engineering for Innovation Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Adriano Chiò
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- SC Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, C.N.R., Rome, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Calvo
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy
- SC Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy
- Neuroscience Institute of Turin (NIT), Turin, Italy
| | - Antonio Canosa
- ALS Centre, 'Rita Levi Montalcini' Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126, Turin, Italy.
- SC Neurologia 1U, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Città della Salute e della Scienza di Torino, Turin, Italy.
- Institute of Cognitive Sciences and Technologies, C.N.R., Rome, Italy.
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Perpetuini D, Russo EF, Cardone D, Palmieri R, De Giacomo A, Pellegrino R, Merla A, Calabrò RS, Filoni S. Use and Effectiveness of Electrosuit in Neurological Disorders: A Systematic Review with Clinical Implications. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:680. [PMID: 37370612 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10060680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrical stimulation through surface electrodes is a non-invasive therapeutic technique used to improve voluntary motor control and reduce pain and spasticity in patients with central nervous system injuries. The Exopulse Mollii Suit (EMS) is a non-invasive full-body suit with integrated electrodes designed for self-administered electrical stimulation to reduce spasticity and promote flexibility. The EMS has been evaluated in several clinical trials with positive findings, indicating its potential in rehabilitation. This review investigates the effectiveness of the EMS for rehabilitation and its acceptability by patients. The literature was collected through several databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement. Positive effects of the garment on improving motor functions and reducing spasticity have been shown to be related to the duration of the administration period and to the dosage of the treatment, which, in turn, depend on the individual's condition and the treatment goals. Moreover, patients reported wellbeing during stimulation and a muscle-relaxing effect on the affected limb. Although additional research is required to determine the efficacy of this device, the reviewed literature highlights the EMS potential to improve the motor capabilities of neurological patients in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Perpetuini
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Cardone
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy
| | - Roberta Palmieri
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Andrea De Giacomo
- Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience Department (DiBraiN), University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Raffaello Pellegrino
- Department of Scientific Research, Campus Ludes, Off-Campus Semmelweis University, 6912 Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Arcangelo Merla
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D'Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy
| | | | - Serena Filoni
- Padre Pio Foundation and Rehabilitation Centers, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
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Karunakaran KK, Pamula SD, Bach CP, Legelen E, Saleh S, Nolan KJ. Lower extremity robotic exoskeleton devices for overground ambulation recovery in acquired brain injury-A review. Front Neurorobot 2023; 17:1014616. [PMID: 37304666 PMCID: PMC10249611 DOI: 10.3389/fnbot.2023.1014616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Acquired brain injury (ABI) is a leading cause of ambulation deficits in the United States every year. ABI (stroke, traumatic brain injury and cerebral palsy) results in ambulation deficits with residual gait and balance deviations persisting even after 1 year. Current research is focused on evaluating the effect of robotic exoskeleton devices (RD) for overground gait and balance training. In order to understand the device effectiveness on neuroplasticity, it is important to understand RD effectiveness in the context of both downstream (functional, biomechanical and physiological) and upstream (cortical) metrics. The review identifies gaps in research areas and suggests recommendations for future research. We carefully delineate between the preliminary studies and randomized clinical trials in the interpretation of existing evidence. We present a comprehensive review of the clinical and pre-clinical research that evaluated therapeutic effects of RDs using various domains, diagnosis and stage of recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran K. Karunakaran
- Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers—New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
- Research Staff Children's Specialized Hospital New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
| | - Sai D. Pamula
- Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, United States
| | - Caitlyn P. Bach
- Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, United States
| | - Eliana Legelen
- Department of Psychology, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ, United States
| | - Soha Saleh
- Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers—New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Karen J. Nolan
- Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research, Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers—New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States
- Research Staff Children's Specialized Hospital New Brunswick, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
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Igusa T, Kobayashi T, Uchida H, Tsuchiya K, Akiba T, Sema S, Kaneko S, Yoshita T, Nagai S, Tanaka Y, Kikuchi S, Hirao K. Effect of gait training using rhythmic auditory stimulation on gait speed in older adults admitted to convalescent rehabilitation wards: A study protocol for a pilot randomized controlled clinical trial. Contemp Clin Trials Commun 2023; 33:101125. [PMID: 37091510 PMCID: PMC10119504 DOI: 10.1016/j.conctc.2023.101125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Decreased walking speed in older patients admitted to convalescent rehabilitation wards (CRWs) is one of the factors that inhibit home discharge. Therefore, interventions to improve gait speed in older patients admitted to CRWs are important, and rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) may be an effective intervention strategy. However, the effect of RAS on gait speed in older patients admitted to CRWs is not well known. Therefore, this study protocol aims to determine the feasibility of the RAS-based gait practice for older patients admitted to the CRW. Methods The study is designed as a single-center, open-label, pilot, randomized, parallel-group study. Participants will be 30 patients aged ≥65 years admitted to the CRW and randomly assigned to the experimental group (RAS-based gait practice; n = 15) or the control group (normal gait practice; n = 15). In both groups, interventions will be conducted for 30 min per session, 5 times per week for 3 weeks. The primary outcome is the change in the 10-m walk test 3 weeks after the baseline assessment. Secondary outcome is the change in the score of the Medical Outcome Study 8-Item Short-Form Health Survey and the Japanese version of the modified Gait Efficacy Scale from baseline assessment to 3 weeks later. Discussion This exploratory RCT was developed using strict scientific standards and is based on defined protocols. Thus, this study will be used to assess the viability of a larger investigation into RAS-based gait practice. If our theory is accurate, this study could serve as a foundation for establishing RAS-based gait practice in CRWs as a common rehabilitation strategy. Trial registration This study was registered in the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) clinical trials registry in Japan (UMIN000049089).
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Igusa
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Takuya Kobayashi
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
- Department of Rehabilitation, Japan Community Healthcare Organization, Gunma Chuo Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Uchida
- Department of Rehabilitation, Kurashiki Heisei Hospital, Kurashiki, Japan
| | - Kenji Tsuchiya
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nagano University of Health and Medicine, Nagano, Japan
| | - Takanari Akiba
- Department of Rehabilitation, Japan Community Healthcare Organization, Gunma Chuo Hospital, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Shota Sema
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Shunsuke Kaneko
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Taiki Yoshita
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Sakyo Nagai
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Yukiko Tanaka
- Department of Rehabilitation, Medical Corporation Taiseikai, Uchida Hospital, Numata, Japan
| | - Senichiro Kikuchi
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Kazuki Hirao
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, Maebashi, Japan
- Corresponding author. Graduate School of Health Sciences, Gunma University, 3-39-22 Showa, Maebashi, Gunma, 371-8514, Japan.
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Functional Improvement and Satisfaction with a Wearable Hip Exoskeleton in Community-Living Adults. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11050643. [PMID: 36900648 PMCID: PMC10000834 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11050643] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Demand for wearable devices and supportive technology is growing as these devices have the potential to enhance physical function and quality of life in users. The purpose of this study was to investigate usability and satisfaction after performing functional and gait exercise with a wearable hip exoskeleton in community-living adults. A total of 225 adults residing in the local community participated in this study. All participants performed 40 min of exercise once with a wearable hip exoskeleton in various environments. The EX1, which functions as a wearable hip exoskeleton, was used. Physical function was assessed before and after exercise with the EX1. After completing exercise with the EX1, the usability and satisfaction questionnaires were evaluated. Gait speed, timed up and go test (TUG), and four square step test (FSST) showed statistically significant improvements after exercise with the EX1 in both groups (p < 0.05). In the 6 min walking test (6MWT), a significant increase was observed in the middle-aged group (p < 0.05). In the short physical performance battery (SPPB), there was a significant improvement in the old-aged group (p < 0.05). On the other hand, positive results in usability and satisfaction were noticed in both groups. These results demonstrate that a single session of exercise with the EX1 was effective in improving physical performance of both middle- and old-aged adults, with positive feedback from most of the participants.
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Yakşi E, Bahadır ES, Yaşar MF, Alışık T, Kurul R, Demirel A. The effect of robot-assisted gait training frequency on walking, functional recovery, and quality of life in patients with stroke. Acta Neurol Belg 2023; 123:583-590. [PMID: 36717532 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-023-02194-1] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study aims to investigate the effects of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) frequency on walking, functional recovery, QoL and mood. METHODS Sixty patients aged 50-75, diagnosed with post-stroke hemiplegia were entered into the retrospective analysis. Participants who scored maximum 3 on the Modified Rankin Scale and were diagnosed with moderate stroke according to The NIH Stroke Scale were included in the study. The participants in group 1 (G1) received only conventional treatment (CT), in group 2 (G2) participants received one session of RAGT per week in addition to the CT program, and group 3 (G3) received two sessions of RAGT per week in addition to the CT program. 6-min walk test (6-MWT), Barthel Index (BI), Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale (SSQoL), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were recorded. RESULTS Median change in SSQoL of G3 was significantly higher from median change of G1 (p < 0.05), and median change in BDI of G3 was significantly lower than median change of G1 (p < 0.05). Median change in BDI of G3 was also significantly lower from change of G2 (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Two weekly sessions of RAGT in addition to CT exhibit positive effects on QoL and mood but no additional contribution to functional status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Yakşi
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, 14020, Bolu, Turkey.
| | - Elif Selim Bahadır
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, 14020, Bolu, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Fatih Yaşar
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, 14020, Bolu, Turkey
| | - Tuğba Alışık
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, 14020, Bolu, Turkey
| | - Ramazan Kurul
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, Bolu, Turkey
| | - Adnan Demirel
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University, 14020, Bolu, Turkey
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Pournajaf S, Calabrò RS, Naro A, Goffredo M, Aprile I, Tamburella F, Filoni S, Waldner A, Mazzoleni S, Focacci A, Ferraro F, Bonaiuti D, Franceschini M. Robotic versus Conventional Overground Gait Training in Subacute Stroke Survivors: A Multicenter Controlled Clinical Trial. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020439. [PMID: 36675371 PMCID: PMC9861649 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although stroke survivors can benefit from robotic gait rehabilitation, stationary robot-assisted gait training needs further investigation. In this paper, we investigated the efficacy of this approach (with an exoskeleton or an end-effector robot) in comparison to the conventional overground gait training in subacute stroke survivors. METHODS In a multicenter controlled clinical trial, 89 subacute stroke survivors conducted twenty sessions of robot-assisted gait training (Robotic Group) or overground gait training (Control Group) in addition to the standard daily therapy. The robotic training was performed with an exoskeleton (RobotEXO-group) or an end-effector (RobotEND-group). Clinical outcomes were assessed before (T0) and after (T1) the treatment. The walking speed during the 10-Meter Walk Test (10 MWT) was the primary outcome of this study, and secondary outcomes were the 6-Minute Walk Test (6 MWT), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), and the modified Barthel Index (mBI). RESULTS The main characteristics assessed in the Robotic and Control groups did not differ at baseline. A significant benefit was detected from the 10 MWT in the Robotic Group at the end of the study period (primary endpoint). A benefit was also observed from the following parameters: 6 MWT, TUG, and mBI. Moreover, patients belonging to the Robot Group outperformed the Control Group in gait speed, endurance, balance, and ADL. The RobotEND-group improved their walking speed more than the RobotEXO-group. CONCLUSION The stationary robot-assisted training improved walking ability better than the conventional training in subacute stroke survivors. These results suggest that people with subacute stroke may benefit from Robot-Assisted training in potentiating gait speed and endurance. Our results also support that end-effector robots would be superior to exoskeleton robots for improving gait speed enhancement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaz Pournajaf
- Neurorehabilitation Research Laboratory, Department of Neurological and Rehabilitation Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163 Rome, Italy
| | - Rocco Salvatore Calabrò
- IRCCS Centro Neurolesi Bonino-Pulejo, 98124 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: (R.S.C.); (M.G.); Tel.: +39-0652252319 (M.G.)
| | - Antonino Naro
- Stroke Unit, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, 98123 Messina, Italy
| | - Michela Goffredo
- Neurorehabilitation Research Laboratory, Department of Neurological and Rehabilitation Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (R.S.C.); (M.G.); Tel.: +39-0652252319 (M.G.)
| | - Irene Aprile
- IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, 50143 Florence, Italy
| | - Federica Tamburella
- Laboratory of Robotic Neurorehabilitation (NeuroRobot Lab.), Spinal Rehabilitation Laboratory (SPIRE Lab.), Neurorehabilitation 1 Department, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, 00124 Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Filoni
- Fondazione Centri di Riabilitazione Padre Pio Onlus, 71013 San Giovani Rotondo, Italy
| | - Andreas Waldner
- Department of Neurorehabilitation, Melittaklinik Hospital, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzoleni
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Politecnico di Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Focacci
- S.C. Medicina Fisica e Riabilitazione, ASL 4 Ospedale di Sestri Levante, 16124 Genova, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferraro
- Struttura Complessa di Riabilitazione Neuromotoria ASST Mantova Presidio di Bozzolo, 46012 Bozzolo, Italy
| | - Donatella Bonaiuti
- Italian Scientific Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (SIMFER), 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Franceschini
- Neurorehabilitation Research Laboratory, Department of Neurological and Rehabilitation Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Roma, 00163 Rome, Italy
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele University, 00123 Rome, Italy
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Sánchez-Manchola M, Arciniegas-Mayag L, Múnera M, Bourgain M, Provot T, Cifuentes CA. Effects of stance control via hidden Markov model-based gait phase detection on healthy users of an active hip-knee exoskeleton. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1021525. [PMID: 37101752 PMCID: PMC10123285 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1021525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: In the past years, robotic lower-limb exoskeletons have become a powerful tool to help clinicians improve the rehabilitation process of patients who have suffered from neurological disorders, such as stroke, by applying intensive and repetitive training. However, active subject participation is considered to be an important feature to promote neuroplasticity during gait training. To this end, the present study presents the performance assessment of the AGoRA exoskeleton, a stance-controlled wearable device designed to assist overground walking by unilaterally actuating the knee and hip joints. Methods: The exoskeleton's control approach relies on an admittance controller, that varies the system impedance according to the gait phase detected through an adaptive method based on a hidden Markov model. This strategy seeks to comply with the assistance-as-needed rationale, i.e., an assistive device should only intervene when the patient is in need by applying Human-Robot interaction (HRI). As a proof of concept of such a control strategy, a pilot study comparing three experimental conditions (i.e., unassisted, transparent mode, and stance control mode) was carried out to evaluate the exoskeleton's short-term effects on the overground gait pattern of healthy subjects. Gait spatiotemporal parameters and lower-limb kinematics were captured using a 3D-motion analysis system Vicon during the walking trials. Results and Discussion: By having found only significant differences between the actuated conditions and the unassisted condition in terms of gait velocity (ρ = 0.048) and knee flexion (ρ ≤ 0.001), the performance of the AGoRA exoskeleton seems to be comparable to those identified in previous studies found in the literature. This outcome also suggests that future efforts should focus on the improvement of the fastening system in pursuit of kinematic compatibility and enhanced compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Sánchez-Manchola
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Colombian School of Engineering Julio Garavito, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Luis Arciniegas-Mayag
- LabTel, Electrical Engineering Department at Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Marcela Múnera
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Colombian School of Engineering Julio Garavito, Bogotá, Colombia
- Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Maxime Bourgain
- EPF Graduate School of Engineering, Cachan, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Paris, France
| | - Thomas Provot
- EPF Graduate School of Engineering, Cachan, France
- Arts et Métiers Institute of Technology, Institut de Biomécanique Humaine Georges Charpak, Paris, France
| | - Carlos A. Cifuentes
- Bristol Robotics Laboratory, University of the West of England, Bristol, United Kingdom
- School of Engineering, Science and Technology, Universidad Del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Carlos A. Cifuentes ,
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Perpetuini D, Russo EF, Cardone D, Palmieri R, Filippini C, Tritto M, Pellicano F, De Santis GP, Pellegrino R, Calabrò RS, Filoni S, Merla A. Psychophysiological Assessment of Children with Cerebral Palsy during Robotic-Assisted Gait Training through Infrared Imaging. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15224. [PMID: 36429941 PMCID: PMC9690262 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurologic pathology representing a leading cause of spasticity and concerning gait impairments in children. Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) is widely employed to treat this pathology to improve children's gait pattern. Importantly, the effectiveness of the therapy is strictly related to the engagement of the patient in the rehabilitation process, which depends on his/her psychophysiological state. The aim of the study is to evaluate the psychophysiological condition of children with CP during RAGT through infrared thermography (IRT), which was acquired during three sessions in one month. A repeated measure ANOVA was performed (i.e., mean value, standard deviation, and sample entropy) extracted from the temperature time course collected over the nose and corrugator, which are known to be indicative of the psychophysiological state of the individual. Concerning the corrugator, significant differences were found for the sample entropy (F (1.477, 5.907) = 6.888; p = 0.033) and for the mean value (F (1.425, 5.7) = 5.88; p = 0.047). Regarding the nose tip, the sample entropy showed significant differences (F (1.134, 4.536) = 11.5; p = 0.041). The findings from this study suggests that this approach can be used to evaluate in a contactless manner the psychophysiological condition of the children with CP during RAGT, allowing to monitor their engagement to the therapy, increasing the benefits of the treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Perpetuini
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Cardone
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy
| | - Roberta Palmieri
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, Institute of Child Neuropsychiatry, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Chiara Filippini
- Department of Neuroscience and Imaging, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | | | - Federica Pellicano
- Padre Pio Foundation and Rehabilitation Centers, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Grazia Pia De Santis
- Padre Pio Foundation and Rehabilitation Centers, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Raffaello Pellegrino
- Department of Scientific Research, Campus Ludes, Off-Campus Semmelweis University, 6912 Lugano, Switzerland
| | | | - Serena Filoni
- Padre Pio Foundation and Rehabilitation Centers, 71013 San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Merla
- Department of Engineering and Geology, University G. D’Annunzio of Chieti-Pescara, 65127 Pescara, Italy
- ITAB, Institute for Advanced Biomedical Technologies, 66100 Chieti, Italy
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Identification of Functional Cortical Plasticity in Children with Cerebral Palsy Associated to Robotic-Assisted Gait Training: An fNIRS Study. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11226790. [PMID: 36431267 PMCID: PMC9692288 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11226790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurologic condition that causes gait limitations, spasticity, and impaired balance and coordination. Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) has become a common rehabilitation tool employed to improve the gait pattern of people with neurological impairments. However, few studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of RAGT in children with CP and its neurological effects through portable neuroimaging techniques, such as functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS). The aim of the study is to evaluate the neurophysiological processes elicited by RAGT in children with CP through fNIRS, which was acquired during three sessions in one month. The repeated measure ANOVA was applied to the β-values delivered by the General Linear Model (GLM) analysis used for fNIRS data analysis, showing significant differences in the activation of both prefrontal cortex (F (1.652, 6.606) = 7.638; p = 0.022), and sensorimotor cortex (F (1.294, 5.175) = 11.92; p = 0.014) during the different RAGT sessions. In addition, a cross-validated Machine Learning (ML) framework was implemented to estimate the gross motor function measure (GMFM-88) from the GLM β-values, obtaining an estimation with a correlation coefficient r = 0.78. This approach can be used to tailor clinical treatment to each child, improving the effectiveness of rehabilitation for children with CP.
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22
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Lee JJ, Park C, You J(SH. Effectiveness of a wearable ankle-tubing gait training on ankle kinematics and motor control in hemiparetic stroke. NeuroRehabilitation 2022; 51:123-132. [DOI: 10.3233/nre-210277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: While excessive ankle plantarflexion is a common neuromuscular impairment resulting from insufficient coordination of selective ankle neuromotor control and kinematics during gait. We recently developed a wearable, inexpensive and sustainable wearable ankle-tubing gait training (WAGT) aimed at improving selective ankle motor control and kinematic coordination. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the effects of WAGT on tibialis anterior (TA) and gastrocnemius (GCM) muscle electromyography (EMG) activity, TA: GCM muscle imbalance ratio, and ankle joint kinematics during gait in hemiparetic stroke patients. METHODS: A convenience sample of 33 participants (15 non-stroke healthy adults and 18 hemiparetic stroke patients) underwent standardized electromyography and kinematic biomechanical tests under conventional gait training (CGT) and WAGT conditions. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the significance of differences in the TA: GCM muscle activation, muscle imbalance ratio, and ankle joint kinematics before and after the intervention and between the two groups at P < 0.05. RESULTS: WAGT was more effective than CGT in improving TA muscle activation (P < 0.01), TA: GCM muscle imbalance ratio (P < 0.01), and kinematic movement (P < 0.01) in adults with or without hemiparetic stroke. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that WAGT is relatively ease to design, wear and affordable to most clinicians and patients, hence it is suitable for many health care applications to correct gait-related movement abnormalities presented in the hemiparetic stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong Jae Lee
- Rehabilitation Team, Myongji Hospital, Goyang, Republic of Korea
- Sports Movement Artificial-Intelligence Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Chanhee Park
- Sports Movement Artificial-Intelligence Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
| | - Joshua (Sung) H. You
- Sports Movement Artificial-Intelligence Robotics Technology (SMART) Institute, Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physical Therapy, Yonsei University, Wonju, Republic of Korea
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23
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The Effectiveness of Physiotherapy Interventions for Mobility in Severe Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Mult Scler Int 2022; 2022:2357785. [PMID: 35860179 PMCID: PMC9293575 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2357785] [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: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background People with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS) prioritise gait as the most valuable function to be affected by MS. Physiotherapy plays a key role in managing gait impairment in MS. There is little evidence on the effectiveness of physiotherapy for severe MS. Objective To undertake a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature to identify evidence for the effectiveness of physiotherapy for gait impairment in severe MS. Methods. The available literature was systematically searched, using a predetermined protocol, to identify research studies investigating a physiotherapy intervention for mobility in people with severe MS (EDSS ≥ 6.0). Data on mobility related endpoints was extracted. Meta-analysis was performed where a given mobility end point was reported in at least 3 studies. Results 37 relevant papers were identified, which included 788 pwMS. Seven mobility-related endpoints were meta-analysed. Robot-Assisted Gait Training (RAGT) was found to improve performance on the 6-minute walk test, 10-metre walk test, fatigue severity scale, and Berg Balance Scale. Neither body weight supported training nor conventional walking training significantly improved any mobility-related outcomes. Conclusion Physiotherapy interventions are feasible for mobility in severe MS. There is some evidence for the effectiveness of RAGT.
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Shushtari M, Dinovitzer H, Weng J, Arami A. Accurate Real-time Phase Estimation for Normal and Asymmetric Gait. IEEE Int Conf Rehabil Robot 2022; 2022:1-6. [PMID: 36176079 DOI: 10.1109/icorr55369.2022.9896410] [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: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
An accurate real-time gait phase estimator for normal and asymmetric gait is developed by training and testing a time-delay neural network on gait data collected from six participants during treadmill walking. The trained model can generate smooth and highly accurate predictions of the gait phase with a root mean square error of less than 3.48% and 4.31% in normal and asymmetric gait, respectively. The coefficient of determination between the estimated and target phase is greater than 99% for all subjects with both normal and asymmetric gait. The proposed gait estimator also exhibits precise heel-strike event detection with an RMSE of 2.56% and 3.70% in normal and asymmetric gait, respectively. A spatial impedance controller is then employed and tested based on the estimated gait phase of a new participant. Obtained results confirm that the controller provided assistance in coordination with the user's motion both in normal and asymmetric gait conditions. The estimated gait phase is compared in the case of walking without and with the exoskeleton in passive and active modes, indicating persistent accuracy of the gait phase estimator regardless of the walking conditions.
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25
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Just IA, Fries D, Loewe S, Falk V, Cesarovic N, Edelmann F, Feuerstein A, Haufe FL, Xiloyannis M, Riener R, Schoenrath F. Movement therapy in advanced heart failure assisted by a lightweight wearable robot: a feasibility pilot study. ESC Heart Fail 2022; 9:1643-1650. [PMID: 35320878 PMCID: PMC9065814 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the safety, feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability of an assisted mobilization of advanced heart failure patients, using a lightweight, exoskeleton-type robot (Myosuit, MyoSwiss AG, Zurich, Switzerland). METHODS AND RESULTS Twenty patients in functional NYHA class III performed activities of daily life (ADL, n = 10) or participated in a single, standardized, 60 min rehabilitation exercise unit (REU, n = 10) with and without the Myosuit. The outcome assessment included the evaluation of vital signs, adverse events, rates of perceived exertion and dyspnoea (RPE, RPD), the ability to perform ADL or REU, and the individual acceptability. The mean age of the subjects was 49.4 (±11.0) years; 80% were male. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 22.1% (±7.4%) and the median NT-proBNP 2054 pg/mL (IQR 677, 3270 pg/mL). In all patients, mobilization with the Myosuit was feasible independently or with minor support. The mean individual difference in the total walking distance of the patients without and with robotic assistance was -26.5 m (95% confidence interval (CI) -142 to 78 m, P = 0.241). No adverse events occurred. RPE and RPD showed no significant difference with or without the device (ADL: RPE -0.1 m, 95% CI -1.42 to 1.62, P = 0.932 and RPD -0.95 m, 95% CI -0.38 to 2.28, P = 0.141; REU: RPE 1.1 m, 95% CI -2.90 to 0.70, P = 0.201 and RPD 0.5 m, 95% CI -2.02 to 1.02, P = 0.435). All median responses in the acceptability questionnaire were positive. The patients felt safe and enjoyed the experience; 85% would be interested in participating in robot-assisted training on a regular basis. CONCLUSION This feasibility pilot trial provides first indications that a robotic exoskeleton-assisted mobilization of patients with advanced heart failure is safe, feasible, well-tolerated, and well-accepted. The results are highly encouraging to further pursue this innovative approach in rehabilitation programmes. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04839133.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabell Anna Just
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Denis Fries
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Sina Loewe
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Volkmar Falk
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
- Department of Cardiothoracic SurgeryCharité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of HealthBerlinGermany
- Translational Cardiovascular Technologies, Department of Health SciencesETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Nikola Cesarovic
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- Translational Cardiovascular Technologies, Department of Health SciencesETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Frank Edelmann
- Department of CardiologyCharité‐Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site GöttingenGöttingenGermany
| | - Anna Feuerstein
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
- Department of CardiologyCharité‐Universitätsmedizin BerlinBerlinGermany
| | - Florian L. Haufe
- Sensory‐Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS)ETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Medical FacultyUniversity of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Michele Xiloyannis
- Sensory‐Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS)ETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Medical FacultyUniversity of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Robert Riener
- Sensory‐Motor Systems (SMS) Lab, Institute of Robotics and Intelligent Systems (IRIS)ETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Medical FacultyUniversity of ZurichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Felix Schoenrath
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular SurgeryGerman Heart Center BerlinBerlinGermany
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site BerlinBerlinGermany
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Choi W. Effects of Robot-Assisted Gait Training with Body Weight Support on Gait and Balance in Stroke Patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105814. [PMID: 35627346 PMCID: PMC9141724 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of robot-assisted gait training with body weight support on gait and balance in stroke patients. The study participants comprised 24 patients diagnosed with stroke. Patients were randomly assigned to four groups of six: robot A, B, C, and non-robot. The body weight support (BWS) for the harness of the robot was set to 30% of the patient’s body weight in robot group A, 50% in robot group B, and 70% in robot group C. All experimental groups received robot-assisted gait training and general physical therapy. The non-robot group underwent gait training using a p-bar, a treadmill, and general physical therapy. The intervention was performed for 30 min a day, five times a week, for 6 weeks. All participants received the intervention after the pre-test. A post-test was performed after all of the interventions were completed. Gait was measured using a 10 m Walking test (10MWT) and the timed up and go (TUG) test. Balance was assessed using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS). Robot groups A, B, and C showed significantly better 10MWT results than did the non-robot group (p < 0.5). TUG was significantly shorter in robot groups A, B, and C than in the non-robot group (p < 0.5). The BBS scores for robot group A improved significantly more than did those for robot groups B and C and the non-robot group (p < 0.5), indicating that robot-assisted gait training with body weight support effectively improved the gait of stroke patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wonho Choi
- Department of Physical Therapy, Gachon University, Incheon 21936, Korea
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27
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Apra C, Serra M, Robert H, Carpentier A. Early rehabilitation using gait exoskeletons is possible in the neurosurgical setting, even in patients with cognitive impairment. Neurochirurgie 2022; 68:458-460. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2021.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Lutokhin GM, Kashezhev AG, Rassulova MA, Pogonchenkova IV, Turova EA, Shulkina AV, Samokhvalov RI. [Implementation of robotic mechanotherapy for movement recovery in patients after stroke]. VOPROSY KURORTOLOGII, FIZIOTERAPII, I LECHEBNOI FIZICHESKOI KULTURY 2022; 99:60-67. [PMID: 36279378 DOI: 10.17116/kurort20229905160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Lower extremity dysfunction after a stroke can vary from mild to extremely severe and significantly reduce the functional independence of patients. The restoration of walking is one of the key components of rehabilitation, it requires a balanced approach and the participation of a multidisciplinary team. In the last decade, new rehabilitation methods have appeared that meet high safety standards and have a minimum set of contraindications. One of the promising methods is robotic mechanotherapy. The article presents an overview of modern technologies of robotic mechanotherapy, its types and recommendations for use in medical rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Lutokhin
- Moscow scientific and practical center of medical rehabilitation, restorative and sports medicine of the department of health of the city of Moscow, Moscow, Russia
| | - A G Kashezhev
- Moscow scientific and practical center of medical rehabilitation, restorative and sports medicine of the department of health of the city of Moscow, Moscow, Russia
| | - M A Rassulova
- Moscow scientific and practical center of medical rehabilitation, restorative and sports medicine of the department of health of the city of Moscow, Moscow, Russia
| | - I V Pogonchenkova
- Moscow scientific and practical center of medical rehabilitation, restorative and sports medicine of the department of health of the city of Moscow, Moscow, Russia
| | - E A Turova
- Moscow scientific and practical center of medical rehabilitation, restorative and sports medicine of the department of health of the city of Moscow, Moscow, Russia
| | - A V Shulkina
- Moscow scientific and practical center of medical rehabilitation, restorative and sports medicine of the department of health of the city of Moscow, Moscow, Russia
| | - R I Samokhvalov
- Moscow scientific and practical center of medical rehabilitation, restorative and sports medicine of the department of health of the city of Moscow, Moscow, Russia
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29
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Bae YH, Chang WH, Fong SSM. Different Effects of Robot-Assisted Gait and Independent Over-Ground Gait on Foot Plantar Pressure in Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: A Preliminary Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182212072. [PMID: 34831823 PMCID: PMC8624494 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182212072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: There is insufficient evidence to establish the optimal treatment protocol for robot-assisted gait training. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the effects of robot-assisted gait and independent over-ground gait on foot pressure and to determine an effective training protocol for improvement of gait pattern in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury due to industrial accidents. Methods: Four patients with incomplete spinal cord injury due to an industrial accident who had gait disturbance underwent measurement of peak foot pressure and stance phase duration using a foot pressure analysis system with robot-assisted gait and independent over-ground gait. Results: The robot-assisted gait condition has lower peak foot pressure and shorter stance phase duration than the independent over-ground gait. Conclusions: In this study, robot-assisted gait was found to limit gait pattern improvement in patients with gait disturbance caused by incomplete spinal cord injury due to industrial accidents. Therefore, future research will be conducted to determine the optimal protocol for robot-assisted gait training for gait pattern improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Hyeon Bae
- Korea National Rehabilitation Center, Department of Healthcare and Public Health, Rehabilitation Research Institute, Seoul 01022, Korea
- Correspondence:
| | - Won Hyuk Chang
- Center for Prevention and Rehabilitation, Department of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, Heart Vascular Stroke Institute, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea;
| | - Shirley S. M. Fong
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, School of Public Health, University of Hong Kong, Hong-Kong 999077, China;
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Nasiri R, Shushtari M, Rouhani H, Arami A. Virtual Energy Regulator: A Time-Independent Solution for Control of Lower Limb Exoskeletons. IEEE Robot Autom Lett 2021. [DOI: 10.1109/lra.2021.3098243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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31
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Kuroda Y, Young M, Shoman H, Punnoose A, Norrish AR, Khanduja V. Advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics-a narrative review. INTERNATIONAL ORTHOPAEDICS 2021; 45:1933-1940. [PMID: 33051693 PMCID: PMC8338874 DOI: 10.1007/s00264-020-04814-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As the demand for rehabilitation in orthopaedics increases, so too has the development in advanced rehabilitation technology. However, to date, there are no review papers outlining the broad scope of advanced rehabilitation technology used within the orthopaedic population. The aim of this study is to identify, describe and summarise the evidence for efficacy for all advanced rehabilitation technologies applicable to orthopaedic practice. METHODS The relevant literature describing the use of advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics was identified from appropriate electronic databases (PubMed and EMBASE) and a narrative review undertaken. RESULTS Advanced rehabilitation technologies were classified into two groups: hospital-based and home-based rehabilitation. In the hospital-based technology group, we describe the use of continuous passive motion and robotic devices (after spinal cord injury) and their effect on improving clinical outcomes. We also report on the use of electromagnetic sensor technology for measuring kinematics of upper and lower limbs during rehabilitation. In the home-based technology group, we describe the use of inertial sensors, smartphones, software applications and commercial game hardware that are relatively inexpensive, user-friendly and widely available. We outline the evidence for videoconferencing for promoting knowledge and motivation for rehabilitation as well as the emerging role of virtual reality. CONCLUSIONS The use of advanced rehabilitation technology in orthopaedics is promising and evidence for its efficacy is generally supportive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Kuroda
- Young Adult Hip Service, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Addenbrooke's-Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Box 37, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Matthew Young
- Young Adult Hip Service, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Addenbrooke's-Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Box 37, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Haitham Shoman
- Young Adult Hip Service, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Addenbrooke's-Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Box 37, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Anuj Punnoose
- Young Adult Hip Service, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Addenbrooke's-Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Box 37, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Alan R Norrish
- Department of Academic Orthopaedics, Trauma and Sports Medicine, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Vikas Khanduja
- Young Adult Hip Service, Department of Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgery, Addenbrooke's-Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Hills Road, Box 37, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK.
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Alashram AR, Annino G, Padua E. Robot-assisted gait training in individuals with spinal cord injury: A systematic review for the clinical effectiveness of Lokomat. J Clin Neurosci 2021; 91:260-269. [PMID: 34373038 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocn.2021.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a critical medical condition that causes numerous impairments leading to accompanying disability. Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) offers many advantages, including the capability to increase the intensity and total duration of training while maintaining a physiological gait pattern. The effects of the RAGT 'Lokomat' on various impairments following SCI remain unclear. OBJECTIVES This review was conducted to examine the impacts of the RAGT 'Lokomat' on the impairments following SCI. METHODS We searched PubMed, SCOPUS, PEDro, REHABDATA, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and web of science from inception to January 2021. Experimental studies examining the effects of the Lokomat on the impairments following incomplete SCI were selected. The methodological quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. RESULTS Sixteen studies were met the inclusion criteria. Thirteen were randomized controlled trials, two were clinical trials, and one was a pilot study. The scores on the PEDro scale ranged from two to eight, with a median score of six. The results showed evidence for the beneficial effects of the Lokomat on many motor impairments following incomplete SCI. CONCLUSIONS The Lokomat may improve gait speed, walking distance, strength, range of motion, and mobility after incomplete SCI. There is insufficient evidence for the effect of the Lokomat on balance, depression, cardiorespiratory fitness, and quality of life. The effects of the Lokomat on the lower extremity spasticity were limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anas R Alashram
- Department of Physiotherapy, Isra University, Amman, Jordan.
| | - Giuseppe Annino
- Department of Medicine Systems, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Elvira Padua
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
In this paper, we present a novel adaptation rule to optimize the exoskeleton assistance in rehabilitation tasks. The proposed method adapts the exoskeleton contribution to user impairment severity without any prior knowledge about the user motor capacity. The proposed controller is a combination of an adaptive feedforward controller and a low gain adaptive PD controller. The PD controller guarantees the stability of the human-exoskeleton system during feedforward torque adaptation by utilizing only the human-exoskeleton joint positions as the sensory feedback for assistive torque optimization. In addition to providing a convergence proof, in order to study the performance of our method we applied it to a simplified 2-DOF model of human-arm and a generic 9-DOF model of lower limb to perform walking. In each simulated task, we implemented the impaired human torque to be insufficient for the task completion. Moreover, the scenarios that violate our convergence proof assumptions are considered. The simulation results show a converging behavior for the proposed controller; the maximum convergence time of 20 s is observed. In addition, a stable control performance that optimally supplements the remaining user motor contribution is observed; the joint angle tracking error in steady condition and its improvement compared to the start of adaptation are as follows: shoulder 0.96±2.53° (76%); elbow −0.35±0.81° (33%); hip 0.10±0.86° (38%); knee −0.19±0.67° (25%); and ankle −0.05±0.20° (60%). The presented simulation results verify the robustness of proposed adaptive method in cases that differ from our mathematical assumptions and indicate its potentials to be used in practice.
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Robot-Assisted Gait Training in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57070713. [PMID: 34356994 PMCID: PMC8306232 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57070713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Gait disorders represent one of the most disabling aspects in multiple sclerosis (MS) that strongly influence patient quality of life. The improvement of walking ability is a primary goal for rehabilitation treatment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) in association with physiotherapy treatment in patients affected by MS in comparison with ground conventional gait training. Study design: Randomized controlled crossover trial. Materials and Methods: Twenty-seven participants affected by MS with EDSS scores between 3.5 and 7 were enrolled, of whom seventeen completed the study. They received five training sessions per week over five weeks of conventional gait training with (experimental group) or without (control group) the inclusion of RAGT. The patients were prospectively evaluated before and after the first treatment session and, after the crossover phase, before and after the second treatment session. The evaluation was based on the 25-foot walk test (25FW, main outcome), 6 min walk test (6MWT), Tinetti Test, Modified Ashworth Scale, and modified Motricity Index for lower limbs. We also measured disability parameters using Functional Independence Measure and Quality of Life Index, and instrumental kinematic and gait parameters: knee extensor strength, double-time support, step length ratio; 17 patients reached the final evaluation. Results: Both groups significantly improved on gait parameters, motor abilities, and autonomy recovery in daily living activities with generally better results of RAGT over control treatment. In particular, the RAGT group improved more than control group in the 25FW (p = 0.004) and the 6MWT (p = 0.022). Conclusions: RAGT is a valid treatment option that in association with physiotherapy could induce positive effects in MS-correlated gait disorders. Our results showed greater effectiveness in recovering gait speed and resistance than conventional gait training.
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Volpini M, Aquino M, Holanda AC, Emygdio E, Polese J. Clinical effects of assisted robotic gait training in walking distance, speed, and functionality are maintained over the long term in individuals with cerebral palsy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Disabil Rehabil 2021; 44:5418-5428. [PMID: 34232847 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2021.1942242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify the short-term effects of robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) on walking distance, gait speed and functionality of cerebral palsy (CP) patients, and to verify if the effects of RAGT are maintained in the long term. METHODS A systematic literature review was performed in PubMed, PEDro, CINAHL, and LILACS databases. Studies were included considering: (1) population (CP individuals); (2) study design (experimental studies); (3) type of intervention (RAGT); (4) outcome (gait parameters and function); and (5) period (short and long term). RESULTS This systematic review included seven articles in meta-analysis. Only walking distance, thru six minutes walking test, increased statistically after RAGT. However, RAGT demonstrated large clinical effects differences (minimal clinically important difference - MCID) in gait speed and Gross Motor Function Measure score (dimensions D and E), for CP population. After RAGT intervention, differences in short term (comparison 1) were maintained in long term (comparison 2) for all outcomes. Gait speed results were not significant. CONCLUSIONS Evidence from the present study demonstrated that RAGT can be an important intervention to improve gait parameters and functionality, in children with CP, that are maintained over long-term.Implications for RehabilitationRobotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) is a beneficial treatment for children with cerebral palsy (CP).RAGT improvements in walking distance are maintained over the long-term in children with CP.RAGT demonstrated large clinical effect differences in gait speed and functionality in CP population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Volpini
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Associação Mineira de Reabilitação, Orthotics for Humans Laboratory (OhLab), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mariana Aquino
- Associação Mineira de Reabilitação, Orthotics for Humans Laboratory (OhLab), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Holanda
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth Emygdio
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Janaine Polese
- Physical Therapy Department, Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Physical Therapy Department, Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Faculdade Ciências Médicas de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Maranesi E, Bevilacqua R, Di Rosa M, Pelliccioni G, Di Donna V, Luzi R, Morettini M, Sbrollini A, Casoni E, Rinaldi N, Baldoni R, Lattanzio F, Burattini L, Riccardi GR. An innovative training based on robotics for older people with subacute stroke: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials 2021; 22:400. [PMID: 34127032 PMCID: PMC8204575 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05357-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stroke is a leading cause of disability, injury, and death in elderly people and represents a major public health problem with substantial medical and economic consequences. The incidence of stroke rapidly increases with age, doubling for each decade after age 55 years. Gait impairment is one of the most important problems after stroke, and improving walking function is often a key component of any rehabilitation program. To achieve this goal, a robotic gait trainer seems to be promising. In fact, some studies underline the efficacy of robotic gait training based on end-effector technology, for different diseases, in particular in stroke patients. In this randomized controlled trial, we verify the efficacy of the robotic treatment in terms of improving the gait and reducing the risk of falling and its long-term effects. METHODS In this single-blind randomized controlled trial, we will include 152 elderly subacute stroke patients divided in two groups to receive a traditional rehabilitation program or a robotic rehabilitation using G-EO system, an end-effector device for the gait rehabilitation, in addition to the traditional therapy. Twenty treatment sessions will be conducted, divided into 3 training sessions per week, for 7 weeks. The control group will perform traditional therapy sessions lasting 50 min. The technological intervention group, using the G-EO system, will carry out 30 min of traditional therapy and 20 min of treatment with a robotic system. The primary outcome of the study is the evaluation of the falling risk. Secondary outcomes are the assessment of the gait improvements and the fear of falling. Further evaluations, such as length and asymmetry of the step, walking and functional status, and acceptance of the technology, will be carried. DISCUSSION The final goal of the present study is to propose a new approach and an innovative therapeutic plan in the post-stroke rehabilitation, focused on the use of a robotic device, in order to obtain the beneficial effects of this treatment. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04087083 . Registered on September 12, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Maranesi
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy. .,Scientific Direction, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy.
| | | | - Mirko Di Rosa
- Unit of Geriatric Pharmacoepidemiology, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Micaela Morettini
- Cardiovascular Bioengineering Lab, Department of Information Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Agnese Sbrollini
- Cardiovascular Bioengineering Lab, Department of Information Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Elisa Casoni
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Nadia Rinaldi
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, Fermo, Italy
| | - Renato Baldoni
- Clinical Unit of Physical Rehabilitation, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Laura Burattini
- Cardiovascular Bioengineering Lab, Department of Information Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Digital Technology in Clinical Trials for Multiple Sclerosis: Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10112328. [PMID: 34073464 PMCID: PMC8199078 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10112328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical trials in multiple sclerosis (MS) have been including digital technology tools to overcome limitations in treatment delivery and disease monitoring. In March 2020, we conducted a systematic search on pubmed.gov and clinicaltrials.gov databases (with no restrictions) to identify all relevant published and unpublished clinical trials, in English language, including MS patients, in which digital technology was applied. We used “multiple sclerosis” and “clinical trial” as the main search words, and “app”, “digital”, “electronic”, “internet” and “mobile” as additional search words, separately. Digital technology is part of clinical trial interventions to deliver psychotherapy and motor rehabilitation, with exergames, e-training, and robot-assisted exercises. Digital technology has been used to standardise previously existing outcome measures, with automatic acquisitions, reduced inconsistencies, and improved detection of symptoms (e.g., electronic recording of motor performance). Other clinical trials have been using digital technology for monitoring symptoms that would be otherwise difficult to detect (e.g., fatigue, balance), for measuring treatment adherence and side effects, and for self-assessment purposes. Collection of outcome measures is progressively shifting from paper-based on site, to internet-based on site, and, in the future, to internet-based at home, with the detection of clinical and treatment features that would have remained otherwise invisible. Similarly, remote interventions provide new possibilities of motor and cognitive rehabilitation.
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Calabrò RS, Sorrentino G, Cassio A, Mazzoli D, Andrenelli E, Bizzarini E, Campanini I, Carmignano SM, Cerulli S, Chisari C, Colombo V, Dalise S, Fundarò C, Gazzotti V, Mazzoleni D, Mazzucchelli M, Melegari C, Merlo A, 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. Robotic-assisted gait rehabilitation following stroke: a systematic review of current guidelines and practical clinical recommendations. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2021; 57:460-471. [PMID: 33947828 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.21.06887-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Stroke is the third leading cause of adult disability worldwide, and lower extremity motor impairment is one of the major determinants of long-term disability. Although robotic therapy is becoming more and more utilized in research protocols for lower limb stroke rehabilitation, the gap between research evidence and its use in clinical practice is still significant. The aim of this study was to determine the scope, quality, and consistency of guidelines for robotic lower limb rehabilitation after stroke, in order to provide clinical recommendations. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION We systematically reviewed stroke rehabilitation guideline recommendations between January 1, 2010 and October 31, 2020. We explored electronic databases (N.=4), guideline repositories and professional rehabilitation networks (N.=12). Two independent reviewers used the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument, and brief syntheses were used to evaluate and compare the different recommendations, considering only the most recent version. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS From the 1219 papers screened, ten eligible guidelines were identified from seven different regions/countries. Four of the included guidelines focused on stroke management, the other six on stroke rehabilitation. Robotic rehabilitation is generally recommended to improve lower limb motor function, including gait and strength. Unfortunately, there is still no consensus about the timing, frequency, training session duration and the exact characteristics of subjects who could benefit from robotics. CONCLUSIONS Our systematic review shows that the introduction of robotic rehabilitation in standard treatment protocols seems to be the future of stroke rehabilitation. However, robot assisted gait training (RAGT) for stroke needs to be improved with new solutions and in clinical practice guidelines, especially in terms of applicability.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gregorio Sorrentino
- Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, Polyclinic of Monza, Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Anna Cassio
- Spinal Cord Unit and Intensive Rehabilitation Medicine, AUSL Piacenza, Villanova sull'Arda and Castel San Giovanni, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Davide Mazzoli
- Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory OPA Sol et Salus, Torre Pedrera, Rimini, Italy
| | - Elisa Andrenelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Università Politecnica delle Marche (UNIVPM), Ancona, Italy
| | - Emiliana Bizzarini
- Spinal Cord Unit, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Gervasutta Hospital, Udine, Italy.,Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU-FC), Udine, Italy
| | - Isabella Campanini
- Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, LAM-Motion Analysis Laboratory, AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Simona Cerulli
- IRCCS A. Gemelli University Polyclinic Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmelo Chisari
- Section of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Dalise
- Section of Neurorehabilitation, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Cira Fundarò
- Unit of Neurophysiopathology, ICS Maugeri, Montescano Institute, Pavia, Italy
| | - Valeria Gazzotti
- Centro Protesi Vigorso di Budrio, Istituto Nazionale Assicurazione Infortuni sul Lavoro (INAIL), Budrio, Bologna, Italy
| | - Daniele Mazzoleni
- School of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Andrea Merlo
- Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory OPA Sol et Salus, Torre Pedrera, Rimini, Italy.,Neuromotor and Rehabilitation Department, LAM-Motion Analysis Laboratory, AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Boldrini
- Italian Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (SIMFER), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzoleni
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Polytechnic of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | | | | | - Enrico Castelli
- Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Draicchio
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Epidemiology and Hygiene, INAIL, Monte Porzio Catone, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Falabella
- Italian Federation of Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries (FAIP Onlus), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Gimigliano
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Grigioni
- National Center for Innovative Technologies in Public Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzon
- Unit of Rehabilitation, ULSS (Local Health Authority) Euganea, Camposampiero Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Franco Molteni
- Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center, Valduce Hospital, Costa Masnaga, Lecco, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Petrarca
- The Movement Analysis and Robotics Laboratory, 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 Terapisti Occupazionali (AITO), Rome, Italy
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Abstract
This paper presents a novel biped-wheeled-wearable machine, named HANDSHAKE, and obtained by an evolution of two robots presented in other works: one flexible-wheeled leg and one biped-flexible-wheeled robot. A critical design analysis of these two robots helped the author to propose a novel machine able to revolutionize the lower body exoskeletons’ world. Conceptual and functional design, mechanical behavior (kinematics and dynamics), and multibody simulation of the biped-wheeled exoskeleton are presented in this paper, and a first reduced scale prototype is used to show the feasibility of the proposed solution. The simple control architecture used in this work underlines the enormous advantages to use the HANDSHAKE system for people with a complete absence of mobility, which are completely supported by this machine. This is possible thanks to the wheeled feet of the HANDSHAKE system which allow to support more weights respect to the classical exoskeletons, available on market and literature. The proposed machine increases stability, dynamic balance, autonomy, reducing power supply and complexity in comparison with classical exoskeleton systems because the wheeled feet are always in contact with the ground. These advantages, recognized in humanoid robots, may be used also in exoskeletons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Gerardo Muscolo
- Department of Computer Science, University of Verona, Ca’ Vignal 2 - Strada Le Grazie 15, 37134 VERONA - Italy
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Energy cost and psychological impact of robotic-assisted gait training in people with spinal cord injury: effect of two different types of devices. Neurol Sci 2021; 42:3357-3366. [PMID: 33411195 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-020-04954-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last years, there has been an intense technological development of robotic devices for gait rehabilitation in spinal cord injury (SCI) patients. The aim of the present study was to evaluate energy cost and psychological impact during a rehabilitation program with two different types of robotic rehabilitation systems (stationary system on a treadmill, Lokomat, and overground walking system, Ekso GT). METHODS Fifteen SCI patients with different injury levels underwent robot-assisted gait training sessions, divided into 2 phases: in the first phase, all subjects completed 3 sessions both Lokomat and Ekso GT. Afterwards, participants were randomly assigned to Lokomat or the Ekso for 17 sessions. A questionnaire, investigating the subjective psychological impact (SPI) during gait training, was administered. The functional outcome measures were oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide production (VCO2), metabolic equivalent of task (MET), walking economy, and heart rate (HR). RESULTS The metabolic responses (7.73 ± 1.02 mL/kg/min) and MET values (3.20 ± 1.01) during robotic overground walking resulted to be higher than those during robotic treadmill walking (3.91 ± 0.93 mL/kg/min and 1.58 ± 0.44; p < 0.01). Both devices showed high scores in emotion and satisfaction. Overground walking resulted in higher scores of fatigue, mental effort, and discomfort while walking with Lokomat showed a higher score in muscle relaxation. All patients showed improvements in walking economy due to a decrease in energy cost with increased speed and workload. CONCLUSIONS Overground robotic-assisted gait training in rehabilitation program needs higher cognitive and cardiovascular efforts than robot-assisted gait training on a treadmill.
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The dose of robot-assisted gait therapy may influence functional recovery in a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program: an exploratory retrospective study. Int J Rehabil Res 2020; 43:175-182. [PMID: 32221149 DOI: 10.1097/mrr.0000000000000407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) has been introduced in clinical practice to increase training intensity in patients with neurological disorders. In this observational study, we investigated the effect of the number of RAGT sessions on functional recovery in a heterogeneous cohort of patients. We included patients with a diagnosis of gait impairment due to a neurological disease. A set of demographic, clinical, functional and training parameters was collected for each participant. Each patient received RAGT with an exoskeleton (Lokomat; Hocoma, Volketswil, Switzerland) as part of a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program. We stratified the patients as good responders and poor responders and investigated the effect of varying the number of RAGT sessions with a series of logistic regression models. A total of 143 patients were included in this analysis (good responders = 65, poor responders = 78). Good responder patients spent more days in the hospital (P < 0.01) and underwent a higher number of RAGT sessions (P = 0.04) compared to poor responder patients. Logistic regression models estimated that adding six RAGT sessions mildly increased (by approximately 4%) the probability of a patient becoming a good responder. The rehabilitation phase (subacute/chronic) appeared to be the main determinant of the probability of being a good responder, and stroke patients appeared to be more sensitive to changes in the number of RAGT sessions. Our results seem to confirm previous observations that robotic therapy increases the intensity of rehabilitation, possibly leading to a greater functional recovery in subacute patients with greater impairment.
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Fricke SS, Smits HJG, Bayón C, Buurke JH, van der Kooij H, van Asseldonk EHF. Effects of selectively assisting impaired subtasks of walking in chronic stroke survivors. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2020; 17:143. [PMID: 33115480 PMCID: PMC7592375 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-020-00762-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recently developed controllers for robot-assisted gait training allow for the adjustment of assistance for specific subtasks (i.e. specific joints and intervals of the gait cycle that are related to common impairments after stroke). However, not much is known about possible interactions between subtasks and a better understanding of this can help to optimize (manual or automatic) assistance tuning in the future. In this study, we assessed the effect of separately assisting three commonly impaired subtasks after stroke: foot clearance (FC, knee flexion/extension during swing), stability during stance (SS, knee flexion/extension during stance) and weight shift (WS, lateral pelvis movement). For each of the assisted subtasks, we determined the influence on the performance of the respective subtask, and possible effects on other subtasks of walking and spatiotemporal gait parameters. METHODS The robotic assistance for the FC, SS and WS subtasks was assessed in nine mildly impaired chronic stroke survivors while walking in the LOPES II gait trainer. Seven trials were performed for each participant in a randomized order: six trials in which either 20% or 80% of assistance was provided for each of the selected subtasks, and one baseline trial where the participant did not receive subtask-specific assistance. The influence of the assistance on performances (errors compared to reference trajectories) for the assisted subtasks and other subtasks of walking as well as spatiotemporal parameters (step length, width and height, swing and stance time) was analyzed. RESULTS Performances for the impaired subtasks (FC, SS and WS) improved significantly when assistance was applied for the respective subtask. Although WS performance improved when assisting this subtask, participants were not shifting their weight well towards the paretic leg. On a group level, not many effects on other subtasks and spatiotemporal parameters were found. Still, performance for the leading limb angle subtask improved significantly resulting in a larger step length when applying FC assistance. CONCLUSION FC and SS assistance leads to clear improvements in performance for the respective subtask, while our WS assistance needs further improvement. As effects of the assistance were mainly confined to the assisted subtasks, tuning of FC, SS and WS can be done simultaneously. Our findings suggest that there may be no need for specific, time-intensive tuning protocols (e.g. tuning subtasks after each other) in mildly impaired stroke survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone S. Fricke
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Hilde J. G. Smits
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Cristina Bayón
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap H. Buurke
- Roessingh Research and Development, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Signals and System, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Herman van der Kooij
- Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
- Department of BioMechanical Engineering, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
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Klochkov AS, Zimin AA, Khizhnikova AE, Suponeva NA, Piradov MA. Effect of robot-assisted gait training on biomechanics of ankle joint in patients with post-stroke hemiparesis. BULLETIN OF RUSSIAN STATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2020. [DOI: 10.24075/brsmu.2020.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The key factor promoting post-stroke gait disturbances is motor impairment of the ankle joint (AJ) which results in pathological synergies. Robotic devices used for gait training are equipped with hip and knee joint actuators. However, there is no consensus in the literature on their effect on AJ movements. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of robot-assisted gait training on AJ movements in patients with post-stroke paresis. The study recruited 22 hemispheric stroke survivors. They motor function was assessed using clinical scales and motion capture analysis. All patients received 11 robot-assisted gait training session. After rehabilitation, the total score on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment scale increased from 146.5 to 152 points (p < 0.05); for the lower limb, the score increased from 18 to 20.5 points (p < 0.05). The muscle tone of ankle extensors decreased from 2.5 to 2.0 points on the modified Ashworth scale (p < 0.05). The duration of the stance phase increased from 28.0 to 33.5% relative to the total gait cycle (GC). The main difference in the GC structure before and after rehabilitation is the presence of 3 GC parts instead of 5, suggesting consolidation of patients’ goniograms at 1-61% of GC. Comparison of joint angles before and after rehabilitation revealed that only the interquartile ranges (IR) were different (р < 0.05). The authors conclude that robot-assisted training with knee and hip joint actuators indirectly affects the kinematic parameters of AJ by promoting a shift towards the average gait kinematics.
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Affiliation(s)
- AS Klochkov
- Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Russia
| | - AA Zimin
- Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - NA Suponeva
- Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Russia
| | - MA Piradov
- Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Russia
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Hu X, Shen F, Zhao Z, Qu X, Ye J. An individualized gait pattern prediction model based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression. J Biomech 2020; 112:110052. [PMID: 33039924 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.110052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Gait pattern prediction is an essential function of individualized motion control of the lower-limb exoskeleton. This paper presents a novel gait pattern prediction model based on the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression. Gait data were collected from one hundred and twenty healthy young adults (78 males and 42 females), who were instructed to walk back and forth on a 12-meter-long walking platform while having their heel strike coinciding with the beat of a metronome. The lower-limb joint (i.e., the hip, knee and ankle) angular kinematics were segmented, resampled and transformed into Fourier coefficients. The LASSO regression model with age, gender and 14 anthropometric parameters as prediction variables was trained and used to estimate the Fourier coefficients which were then applied in the lower-limb joint angle trajectory reconstruction. The results showed that the root mean square errors between the actual and predicted joint angle trajectories ranged from 3.41° to 4.55°. The parameters of the linear fit method further revealed the waveform similarity between the actual and predicted joint angle time series. These results suggested that the proposed model was able to accurately predict lower-limb joint kinematics during gait. Application of the proposed model can help resolve the overfitting problem, and provides a new solution to individualized gait pattern prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyao Hu
- Institute of Human Factors and Ergonomics, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, China
| | - Fei Shen
- Institute of Human Factors and Ergonomics, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, China
| | - Zhong Zhao
- Institute of Human Factors and Ergonomics, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, China
| | - Xingda Qu
- Institute of Human Factors and Ergonomics, College of Mechatronics and Control Engineering, Shenzhen University, China.
| | - Jing Ye
- Shenzhen Milebot Robotics Co. Ltd., Shenzhen, China
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Schmitthenner D, Sweeny C, Du J, Martin AE. The Effect of Stiff Foot Plate Length on Walking Gait Mechanics. J Biomech Eng 2020; 142:091012. [PMID: 32280960 DOI: 10.1115/1.4046882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Exoskeletons are increasingly being used to treat gait pathologies. Many of these exoskeletons use a foot plate to actuate the foot, altering the effective stiffness of the foot. Stiffness of the biological foot and ankle plays an important role in the energy modulating function of the leg, so it is important to examine how a foot plate in and of itself impacts gait. Therefore, this study quantified how foot plates themselves alter the walking gait of 16 healthy young adults. The effect of the foot plate length was also examined through the use of two foot plates, one that ended at the metatarsals and one that extended past the toes, about 20% longer. Gait parameters examined included walking speed, step frequency, joint angles for the hip, knee, ankle, forefoot, and toe, ground reaction forces (GRF), and foot-ankle power. The most significant changes were caused by the full plate, which caused an average 13% decrease in the ankle range of motion (ROM) and a 23% decrease in forward GRF at push off. The shorter plate also decreased ankle ROM to a lesser degree. This indicates that the presence of a foot plate impacted foot and ankle kinematics. However, the presence of the tested foot plate had no effect on walking speed or hip or knee kinematics. This indicates that subjects were mostly able to compensate both kinematically and energetically via their foot and ankle for the increased foot stiffness due to the tested foot plate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dave Schmitthenner
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Carolyn Sweeny
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Jing Du
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
| | - Anne E Martin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802
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Alajam RA, Alqahtanti AS, Frederick J, Liu W. The feasibility of an 8-Week walking training program using a novel assistive gait training device in individuals with spinal cord injury. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020; 17:658-667. [PMID: 32780981 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1805801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to examine the feasibility of an 8-week walking training programme using a novel assistive gait training device in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). METHODS This study was a pilot, single group, pretest-posttest study design. Participants received walking training, 3 sessions a week for 8 weeks. Participants were trained on a treadmill using a novel assistive gait training device. Feasibility data about recruitment, retention, compliance, and participants' performance, and participants' perception were collected throughout the study period. RESULTS 11 participants with chronic SCI (8 males, 3 females, age: 38 ± 10 years old, injury levels T3-L1; injury onset 8 ± 10 years) completed the study. The recruitment rate of 27.2% reached in this study was acceptable. Throughout the period of training, all participants were able to progress in their walking performance with respect to treadmill speed, walking distance, duration of training, and percentage of body weight support. The overall compliance rate of participants with training sessions was 96.2 ± 6.5%. From responses to the end intervention questionnaire, the majority of participants showed positive perception to the walking training programme as well as the assistive gait training. CONCLUSION The 8 weeks of walking training was feasible in individuals with chronic SCI. The assistive gait training device was feasible and safe to use in individuals with paraplegia. Clinical Trials Registration Number: NCT03940274Implication for rehabilitationThe use of a novel assistive gait training device using a pulley system with a pulling cable walking training is feasible.The novel assistive gait training device will reduce workload by allowing physical therapists to work on an ergonomic position while providing the necessary stepping assistance for the patient's legs/feet during walking on a treadmill.The novel assistive gait training device is developed to provide a low-cost assistive device to be used in walking rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramzi A Alajam
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA.,Department of Physical Therapy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Jason Frederick
- Department of and Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Wen Liu
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA
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Passive, yet not inactive: robotic exoskeleton walking increases cortical activation dependent on task. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2020; 17:107. [PMID: 32778109 PMCID: PMC7418323 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-020-00739-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Experimental designs using surrogate gait-like movements, such as in functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cannot fully capture the cortical activation associated with overground gait. Overground gait in a robotic exoskeleton may be an ideal tool to generate controlled sensorimotor stimulation of gait conditions like ‘active’ (i.e. user moves with the device) and ‘passive’ (i.e. user is moved by the device) gait. To truly understand these neural mechanisms, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) would yield greater ecological validity. Thus, the aim of this experiment was to use fNIRS to delineate brain activation differences between ‘Active’ and ‘Passive’ overground gait in a robotic exoskeleton. Methods Fourteen healthy adults performed 10 walking trials in a robotic exoskeleton for Passive and Active conditions, with fNIRS over bilateral frontal and parietal lobes, and electromyography (EMG) over bilateral thigh muscles. Digitization of optode locations and individual T1 MRI scans were used to demarcate the brain regions fNIRS recorded from. Results Increased oxyhemoglobin in the right frontal cortex was found for Passive compared with Active conditions. For deoxyhemoglobin, increased activation during Passive was found in the left frontal cortex and bilateral parietal cortices compared with Active; one channel in the left parietal cortex decreased during Active when compared with Passive. Normalized EMG mean amplitude was higher in the Active compared with Passive conditions for all four muscles (p ≤ 0.044), confirming participants produced the conditions asked of them. Conclusions The parietal cortex is active during passive robotic exoskeleton gait, a novel finding as research to date has not recorded posterior to the primary somatosensory cortex. Increased activation of the parietal cortex may be related to the planning of limb coordination while maintaining postural control. Future neurorehabilitation research could use fNIRS to examine whether exoskeletal gait training can increase gait-related brain activation with individuals unable to walk independently.
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Maranesi E, Riccardi GR, Di Donna V, Di Rosa M, Fabbietti P, Luzi R, Pranno L, Lattanzio F, Bevilacqua R. Effectiveness of Intervention Based on End-effector Gait Trainer in Older Patients With Stroke: A Systematic Review. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2020; 21:1036-1044. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2019.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Treadmill-Based Locomotor Training With Robotic Pelvic Assist and Visual Feedback: A Feasibility Study. J Neurol Phys Ther 2020; 44:205-213. [PMID: 32516301 DOI: 10.1097/npt.0000000000000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Gait asymmetries are common after stroke, and often persist despite conventional rehabilitation. Robots provide training at a greater practice frequency than conventional approaches. However, prior studies of have found the transfer of learned skills outside of the device to be inadequate. The tethered pelvic assist device (TPAD) promotes weight shifting, yet allows users to independently navigate spatiotemporal aspects of gait. The purpose of this study was to evaluate feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a 5-day intervention combining TPAD training with visual feedback and task-specific overground training to promote improved force and stance symmetry in individuals after stroke. METHODS After baseline assessments, 11 participants chronically after stroke received 1 hour of practice for 5 consecutive days. Training sessions included visual feedback during TPAD treadmill training followed by overground gait training. Safety, perceived exertion, and adherence were recorded as measures of feasibility. Load and stance symmetry were reassessed after the intervention (posttraining) and again 1 week later. RESULTS No adverse events were reported. Mean (SD) perceived exertion (3.61 (0.23)) was low and did not significantly change throughout the intervention. Overall adherence was 96.4%. Load asymmetry was not significantly reduced on the treadmill from baseline to posttraining (P = 0.075). Overground stance symmetry significantly improved on posttraining (F = 8.498, P = 0.002), but was not sustained at follow-up. (See the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A311, which summarizes the study background, methods, and results.) DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS:: Results demonstrate this combined interventional approach was feasible and improved stance symmetry overground, yet further work should consider increasing training intensity and/or duration to induce gains lasting through follow-up.
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Puyuelo-Quintana G, Cano-de-la-Cuerda R, Plaza-Flores A, Garces-Castellote E, Sanz-Merodio D, Goñi-Arana A, Marín-Ojea J, García-Armada E. A new lower limb portable exoskeleton for gait assistance in neurological patients: a proof of concept study. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2020; 17:60. [PMID: 32375815 PMCID: PMC7201760 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-020-00690-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few portable exoskeletons following the assist-as-needed concept have been developed for patients with neurological disorders. Thus, the main objectives of this proof-of-concept study were 1) to explore the safety and feasibility of an exoskeleton for gait rehabilitation in stroke and multiple sclerosis patients, 2) to test different algorithms for gait assistance and measure the resulting gait changes and 3) to evaluate the user's perception of the device. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted. Five patients were recruited (4 patients with stroke and 1 with multiple sclerosis). A robotic, one-degree-of-freedom, portable lower limb exoskeleton known as the Marsi Active Knee (MAK) was designed. Three control modes (the Zero Force Control mode, Mode 1 and Mode 3) were implemented. Spatiotemporal gait parameters were measured by the 10-m walking test (10MWT), the Gait Assessment and Intervention Tool (G.A.I.T.) and Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment (gait subscale) before and after the trials. A modified QUEST 2.0 questionnaire was administered to determine each participant's opinion about the exoskeleton. The data acquired by the MAK sensors were normalized to a gait cycle, and adverse effects were recorded. RESULTS The MAK exoskeleton was used successfully without any adverse effects. Better outcomes were obtained in the 10MWT and G.A.I.T. when Mode 3 was applied compared with not wearing the device at all. In 2 participants, Mode 3 worsened the results. Additionally, Mode 3 seemed to improve the 10MWT and G.A.I.T. outcomes to a greater extent than Mode 1. The overall score for the user perception of the device was 2.8 ± 0.4 95% CI. CONCLUSIONS The MAK exoskeleton seems to afford positive preliminary results regarding safety, feasibility, and user acceptance. The efficacy of the MAK should be studied in future studies, and more advanced improvements in safety must be implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Puyuelo-Quintana
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
- MarsiBionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
| | - R Cano-de-la-Cuerda
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Rey Juan Carlos University, Avda. Atenas s/n, 28922, Madrid, Spain.
| | - A Plaza-Flores
- MarsiBionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
- Centre of Automation and Robotics, CSIC-UPM, Madrid, Spain
| | - E Garces-Castellote
- MarsiBionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
- Escuela de Doctorado, Alcalá University, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - A Goñi-Arana
- Centre of Automation and Robotics, CSIC-UPM, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - E García-Armada
- MarsiBionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
- Centre of Automation and Robotics, CSIC-UPM, Madrid, Spain
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