Robotic-Assisted Gait Training Combined with Multimodal Rehabilitation for Functional Recovery in Acute...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Immunology

Background:

• Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune inflammatory myopathy characterized by progressive muscle weakness and functional disability.
• Conventional rehabilitation is crucial, but novel therapeutic approaches are needed to optimize recovery, especially for proximal muscle weakness and postural instability.

Observation:

• A 28-year-old male patient with acute DM received 21 sessions of Lokomat-assisted robotic therapy combined with physical and occupational therapy over seven weeks.
• Standardized assessments of balance, muscle strength, and functional independence were performed at baseline, week 10, and week 21.

Findings:

• Significant improvements were observed in balance (Berg, Tinetti), muscle strength (MMT-8), and overall functionality (FIM).
• Remarkable recovery in trunk control was noted (TCT scores improved from 12/100 to 100/100).
• The patient progressed from severe impairment and moderate dependence to near-normal function and complete independence.

Implications:

• Lokomat-assisted therapy, combined with conventional rehabilitation, effectively addresses proximal weakness and postural instability in DM patients.
• Robotic therapy may enhance motor learning through repetitive movements and reduce the physical burden on therapists.
• This case report provides preliminary evidence for robotic rehabilitation in DM, suggesting potential for advanced technologies in treating inflammatory myopathies.