Robot-assisted gait training promotes brain reorganization after stroke: A randomized controlled pilot study

2020 ◽  
Vol 46 (4) ◽  
pp. 483-489
Author(s):  
Dae Hyun Kim ◽  
Chang Soon Kang ◽  
Sohyun Kyeong
Medicina ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 57 (7) ◽  
pp. 713
Author(s):  
Cristiano Sconza ◽  
Francesco Negrini ◽  
Berardo Di Matteo ◽  
Alberto Borboni ◽  
Gennaro Boccia ◽  
...  

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.


2021 ◽  
Vol 29 (03) ◽  
pp. 126-131
Author(s):  
Okasha Anjum ◽  
Hajra Ameer Shaikh ◽  
Nida Waheed ◽  
Syeda Wajeeha Raza Zaidi

Efficacy Of Robot-assisted Physiotherapy For Pain Management In Neurological Disorders-A Systematic Review Abstract Background: Neurological disorders (ND) are ranked as the leading cause of death and disability around the globe and the escalating burden summons the advancements in the treatment strategies hence this systematic review aimed to fill the knowledge gap regarding the efficacy of robot-assisted physiotherapy (RAPT) for pain management in ND. Methodology: Scientific trials were sought by an extensive search via electronic databases mainly PubMed, PEDro, and Scopus. Randomized controlled trials published from the year 2014 to April 2021, evaluating the potential effects of RAPT for pain management in ND were included in the review. The quality appraisal of the RCTs was analyzed via Cochrane tool for assessing risk of bias. Results: The Majority of the trials reported the effectiveness of RAPT using PARO robot, Armeo spring, Gloreha robot, and robotic Lokomat gait training system in significantly improving pain of ND such as stroke, dementia, phantom syndrome, and spinal cord injuries. Conclusions: Large body of evidence suggested RAPT as a potential solution in improving pain of various ND however further rigorous trials are necessary to draw conclusive recommendations. Keywords: Neurological disorders, pain, physiotherapy management, rehabilitation, robot-assisted physiotherapy, robotics


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document