Gait rehabilitation machines based on programmable footplates

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Robotics in Medicine
• Motor Learning

Background:

• Gait restoration is crucial for patients with brain lesions.
• Modern rehabilitation emphasizes task-specific, repetitive training over older methods.
• Early mobilization and practice of complex gait cycles are essential post-injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of advanced gait rehabilitation technologies.
• To compare robotic-assisted therapy with conventional methods.
• To explore the potential of new devices for improving gait restoration.

Main Methods:

• Initial use of treadmill training with partial body weight support.
• Implementation of gait machines (e.g., Lokomat, Gait Trainer GT I).
• Utilizing advanced devices like the HapticWalker with programmable features and force sensors.

Main Results:

• Treadmill training allowed up to 1000 steps/session but showed no superiority over floor walking in some trials.
• Gait machines, particularly the Gait Trainer GT I in the DEGAS trial, demonstrated superior gait ability and daily living competence.
• The HapticWalker enables training in diverse situations, including stair climbing and perturbation responses.

Conclusions:

• Locomotor therapy represents a significant advancement in rehabilitation.
• It aligns with modern motor relearning principles, promoting task-specific practice.
• Technical innovations and positive clinical trials support the growing acceptance and benefits of these technologies.