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An Overground Robotic Gait Training Program for People With Multiple Sclerosis: A Protocol for a Randomized Clinical
Rakel Berriozabalgoitia1,2, Begoña Sanz2, Ana Belén Fraile-Bermúdez3
1ADEMBI, Multiple Sclerosis Association of Bizkaia, Bilbao, Spain.
Frontiers in Medicine
|June 26, 2020
Summary
Overground robotic (OR) exoskeleton training improved walking ability in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with moderate to severe walking impairments. Benefits were sustained at a 3-month follow-up, indicating potential for enhanced quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Walking impairment is a significant challenge for people with multiple sclerosis (MS), impacting quality of life.
- Overground robotic (OR) wearable exoskeletons show promise for gait rehabilitation.
- Limited evidence exists on the clinical effects of OR interventions in MS patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the effects of an OR intervention on gait in people with MS and moderate to severe walking disabilities.
- To assess the maintenance of benefits over a 3-month follow-up period.
Main Methods:
- A randomized controlled trial involving 36 participants with MS (EDSS 4.5-7).
- Intervention group received conventional physiotherapy plus progressive OR gait training using the Ekso™ exoskeleton (twice weekly).
- Control group received conventional physiotherapy only.
Main Results:
- The study is the first to analyze the effectiveness of OR gait training in MS patients.
- Primary outcome: gait speed.
- Secondary outcomes: physical/cognitive performance, clinical assessments, fatigue, quality of life, and inflammatory cytokines.
Conclusions:
- This trial will clarify the applicability of robotic technologies in clinical practice for MS.
- The findings aim to extend the functionality and quality of life for people with MS.
- Potential for successful aging with improved mobility in MS patients.
