In a nutshell
This study investigated if robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) can improve walking in patients following a stroke. They found that RAGT improved walking in patients after a stroke.
Some background
A stroke is caused by impaired blood flow to the brain. Following a stroke, some patients may have one-sided paralysis. This is called hemiplegia (HP). HP can lead to problems with gait (walking). Patients may need training through physical therapy (PT) to improve gait following a stroke.
Walking speed and step length can be affected by stroke. Improving the speed of walking is important for a patient’s quality of life. Usually, rehabilitation (RH) is performed alongside a physiotherapist. Evidence suggests that robots could be used for RH. This is called robot-assisted gait training, or RAGT. The Stride Management Assist (SMA) is a robot that can be worn by the patient. The SMA can improve walking speed in elderly people. It is unclear if SMA can improve walking speed with HP after stroke.
Methods & findings
This study included 41 patients with HP following a stroke. 21 patients were assigned to the SMA group and 20 patients were assigned to the control group. All patients underwent PT. Patients in the SMA group used the SMA; patients in the control group used a standard assistive device such as a cane. The trial lasted 10 days. Walking speed was the outcome of interest.
Patients using the SMA showed a significant improvement in walking speed during the study. Patients using the SMA had improvements in the step length on their paralyzed side. The symmetry between paralyzed and non-paralyzed sides improved significantly in the SMA group. The number of steps per minute was also improved in SMA-treated patients.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that RAGT improved walking speed in patients with walking disability after a stroke.
The fine print
This study was a short-term study with a very small number of patients. Larger studies are needed.
What’s next?
If you have any concerns regarding stroke treatment, please consult with your physician.
Published By :
Journal of stroke and cerebrovascular diseases: the official journal of the National Stroke Association
Date :
Nov 09, 2018
