Does robot-assisted gait training ameliorate gait abnormalities in multiple sclerosis? A pilot randomized-control trial
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Updated: May 8, 2026
An Experiment Using Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Robot-Assisted Multi-Joint Pointing Movements of the Lower Limb
Published on: June 7, 2024
S Straudi1, M G Benedetti2, E Venturini3
1Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, Ferrara University Hospital, Ferrara, Italy Doctoral Program in Advanced Sciences in Rehabilitation Medicine and Sport, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy.
Background:
Gait disorders are common in multiple sclerosis (MS) and lead to a progressive reduction of function and quality of life.
Objective:
Test the effects of robot-assisted gait rehabilitation in MS subjects through a pilot randomized-controlled study.
Methods:
We enrolled MS subjects with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores within 4.5-6.5. The experimental group received 12 robot-assisted gait training sessions over 6 weeks. The control group received the same amount of conventional physiotherapy. Outcomes measures were both biomechanical assessment of gait, including kinematics and spatio-temporal parameters, and clinical test of walking endurance (six-minute walk test) and mobility (Up and Go Test).
Results:
16 subjects (n = 8 experimental group, n = 8 control group) were included in the final analysis. At baseline the two groups were similar in all variables, except for step length. Data showed walking endurance, as well as spatio-temporal gait parameters improvements after robot-assisted gait training. Pelvic antiversion and reduced hip extension during terminal stance ameliorated after aforementioned intervention.
Conclusions:
Robot-assisted gait training seems to be effective in increasing walking competency in MS subjects. Moreover, it could be helpful in restoring the kinematic of the hip and pelvis.
