This trial is comparing conventional physical therapy, a powered exoskeleton (PE), and a combination of both treatments for stroke survivors. The main outcome will be the change in walking and balance before and after treatment. This trial will be conducted in California, US.
The details
A stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain is cut-off. The brain cells stop receiving oxygen and begin to die. This leaves patients with various side effects, such as impaired walking.
The standard treatment for these patients is conventional physical therapy. However, this therapy is only of limited effectiveness. A PE is a wearable machine that allows the movement of arms and legs with increased strength. Prior studies confirmed its effectiveness in the treatment. However, more studies are necessary to assess if PE can be a part of the standard treatment program in stroke recovery.
This trial will evaluate the effectiveness of PE alone or in combination with standard physical therapy compared with physical therapy alone in stroke survivors with impaired gait. The main outcomes to be evaluated will be a change in walking and balance after treatment.
Who are they looking for?
This trial will be recruiting 36 stroke survivors with impaired walking and/or balance. Patients must not have had previous treatment with a PE.
How will it work
There will be 3 groups of treatment. Participants will receive either combined treatment with physical therapy and PE, physical therapy alone, or PE alone. All participants will receive treatment 3 times a week, for 6 weeks. Patients receiving physical therapy only will receive an additional 9 PE sessions, 3 times a week, for 3 weeks.
The main outcome will be the change in walking ability and balance before and after treatment. Participants will be evaluated for changes in balance and gait after 6 weeks.
