Effects of Pelvic Motion During Robotic-Assisted Gait Training on Balance and Gait Speed in Chronic Stroke: A...

Background and Objectives: Pelvic fixation during robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) may limit trunk-pelvis movement and influence functional recovery after stroke. This study investigated whether allowing pelvic motion during RAGT improves balance and gait performance in individuals with chronic stroke. Materials and Methods: A single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in 49 individuals with chronic stroke (PFG, n = 24; PRG, n = 25). Participants received Lokomat-assisted gait training (30 min/session, 3 sessions/week for 4 weeks) in addition to conventional therapy. The primary outcome was balance (BBS), and secondary outcomes included DGI, 10 MWT, and pelvic kinematics. Group × time interactions were analyzed using two-way repeated-measures ANOVA. Results: Significant group × time interactions were observed for BBS and DGI (p < 0.001), indicating greater improvements in the PRG. Gait speed improved significantly over time in both groups (p < 0.001), with no significant interaction for the 10 MWT. No significant interaction effects were found for pelvic kinematics, although a group main effect was observed for pelvic tilt. No adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Allowing pelvic motion during RAGT was associated with greater improvements in balance and dynamic gait performance compared with pelvic fixation. However, no corresponding changes were observed in pelvic kinematics, suggesting that functional improvements may not be explained by kinematic changes alone.