Exoskeleton Training Modulates Complexity in Movement Patterns and Cortical Activity in Able-Bodied Volunteers

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Robot-aided gait training (RAGT) is vital for intensive physical therapy.
• Human-robot interaction in RAGT presents challenges.
• Quantifying RAGT's impact on brain activity and motor learning is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify the neuromuscular effects of a single RAGT session.
• To investigate RAGT's impact on brain activity and motor learning in healthy adults.

Main Methods:

• Electromyography (EMG) and inertial measurement units (IMU) recorded gait parameters before and after RAGT.
• Electroencephalography (EEG) captured brain activity during rest.
• Linear and nonlinear analyses were applied to EMG, IMU, and EEG data.

Main Results:

• RAGT modulated cortical activity in motor, attentive, and visual areas.
• Increased alpha and beta EEG spectral power and regularity were observed.
• Changes in gait patterns included increased frontal plane body oscillation regularity and altered muscle activation.

Conclusions:

• A single RAGT session induces immediate neuromuscular and cortical changes.
• Findings enhance understanding of human-machine interaction and motor learning during gait rehabilitation.
• Results may inform the development of more effective exoskeletons for assisted walking.