Treadmill training augmented with real-time visualisation feedback and function electrical stimulation for gait...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Biomechanics
• Clinical Trials

Background:

• Stroke rehabilitation frequently employs motor relearning principles, emphasizing active skill practice and feedback.
• Treadmill training integrated with real-time visual feedback and functional electrical stimulation (FES) shows potential for synergistic effects on motor recovery.
• A novel system combining 3D motion capture for dynamic lower-limb visualization and computer-timed FES was developed for enhanced gait rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of enhanced treadmill training for gait rehabilitation in post-stroke patients.
• To evaluate the safety and practicality of this augmented training approach in a clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• Participants underwent up to 20-minute enhanced treadmill sessions twice weekly for six weeks.
• Feasibility was determined by attendance rates and training duration.
• Ankle kinematics were analyzed to confirm FES effectiveness in supporting pre-tibial muscles during the swing phase of gait.

Main Results:

• Six stroke patients (5 male, ages 30-84) participated; 4/6 had left hemiplegia and all were at least 3 months post-stroke.
• Session attendance ranged from 5 to 12 sessions, with training durations between 11-20 minutes.
• Computer-controlled FES significantly reduced plantarflexion during the swing phase (p=0.015 at 80%; p=0.008 at 90-100% gait cycle), with no serious adverse events reported.

Conclusions:

• Enhanced treadmill training incorporating real-time visual feedback and computer-controlled FES is safe and feasible for post-stroke gait rehabilitation.
• This approach can be integrated into routine clinical practice for improved patient outcomes.