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Wearable Robotic Gait Training in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis: A Satisfaction Study
Diego Fernández-Vázquez1,2, Roberto Cano-de-la-Cuerda2, María Dolores Gor-García-Fogeda3
1International Doctorate School, Rey Juan Carlos University, 28922 Madrid, Spain.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 24, 2021
Summary
Patients and physiotherapists reported high satisfaction with the EKSO GT® exoskeleton for multiple sclerosis (MS) gait training. Effectiveness and safety were praised, though comfort and weight need improvement.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Clinical Biomechanics
Background:
- Wearable exoskeletons offer potential benefits for individuals with neurological disorders, improving disability and quality of life.
- Understanding user perspectives, including those of patients and physiotherapists, is crucial for effective implementation of assistive technologies.
- Gait training with exoskeletons is a developing area for managing conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess patient and physiotherapist satisfaction with gait training using the EKSO GT® exoskeleton in individuals with MS.
- To identify specific aspects of the EKSO GT® that contribute to user satisfaction or require improvement.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 54 participants (patients with MS and physiotherapists).
- Data collection included clinical assessments and self-administered satisfaction questionnaires (Quebec User Evaluation with Assistive Technology and Client Satisfaction Questionnaire).
- Correlation analysis was performed to explore relationships between usage metrics (number of sessions, therapist experience) and satisfaction scores.
Main Results:
- Both patients and physiotherapists reported a high level of satisfaction with the EKSO GT® exoskeleton.
- A moderate correlation was observed between the number of training sessions and patient satisfaction (rho = 0.532).
- A strong correlation was found between physiotherapists' experience and their satisfaction with integrating the device into varied training approaches (rho = 0.723).
- Effectiveness, safety, and impact on gait were highly rated; however, patients suggested improvements in comfort and device weight.
Conclusions:
- The EKSO GT® exoskeleton demonstrates a good degree of user satisfaction among people with MS and their treating physiotherapists.
- The device's effectiveness and safety are key strengths, supporting its use in rehabilitation.
- Addressing patient-reported concerns regarding comfort and weight could further enhance the utility and acceptance of the EKSO GT® in clinical practice.
