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The application of antigravity treadmill training to clinical rehabilitation: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Jie Hao1, Zixuan Yao2, Andréas Remis3
1Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Southeast Colorado Hospital, Springfield, CO, USA; Global Health Opportunity Program, College of Allied Health Professions, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
Objective:
This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to identify, critically appraise, and summarize research regarding the application and effects of antigravity treadmills in clinical rehabilitation.
Data Sources:
Three databases, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus were searched from inception to May 1, 2024. Clinical trials assessing the effects of the antigravity treadmill training in clinical rehabilitation were eligible for inclusion.
Methods:
Two independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. Methodological quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale and the National Institutes of Health Study Quality Assessment Tool. Meta-analyses were performed to determine the effects of the antigravity treadmill training on health-related outcomes.
Results:
A total of 24 studies were included, comprising 15 randomized controlled trials and nine single-cohort clinical trials, with a combined sample of 682 patients. For neuromuscular conditions, antigravity treadmill training produced significant improvements in balance (SMD: 1.78, 95 % CI: 0.93-2.64, p < 0.001) and gait speed (SMD: 0.90, 95 % CI: 0.10-1.70, p = 0.03). No significant difference was found in gait endurance (SMD: 0.41, 95 % CI: -0.02-0.83, p = 0.06). For musculoskeletal conditions, antigravity treadmill training resulted in significantly improved gait performance (SMD: 2.99, 95 % CI: 1.66-4.33, p = 0.006) and lower extremity function (SMD: 1.55, 95 % CI: 0.58-2.52, p = 0.002), and reduced pain (SMD: -1.59, 95 % CI: -2.39 to -0.79, p < 0.001). Among the included studies, none reported any events related to antigravity treadmill training.
Conclusion:
This review highlights the promising effects of the antigravity treadmill in augmenting clinical rehabilitation among patients with neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions. As an emerging rehabilitation technology, antigravity treadmill may improve function and support recovery in diverse patient populations.
