Robotic-assisted, body-weight-supported treadmill training in individuals following motor incomplete spinal cord injury.
OBJECTIVE
Performance of therapist-assisted, body-weight-supported treadmill training (BWSTT) to enhance walking ability of people with neurological injury is an area of intense research. Its application in the clinical setting, however, is limited by the personnel and labor requirements placed on physical therapists. Recent development of motorized ("robotic") rehabilitative devices that provide assistance during stepping may improve delivery of BWSTT.


METHODS
This case report describes the use of a robotic device to enhance motor recovery and ambulation in 3 people following motor incomplete spinal cord injury.


METHODS
Changes in motor impairment, functional limitations, and locomotor disability were monitored weekly during robotic-assisted BWSTT and following transition to therapist-assisted BWSTT with the assistance of one therapist.


RESULTS
Following this training, 2 patients recovered independent over-ground walking and another improved his gait speed and endurance.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of robotic devices may assist physical therapists by providing task-specific practice of stepping in people following neurological injury.
Hornby
T George
TG
Department of Physical Therapy, College of Applied Health Sciences, University of Illinois, 1919 W Taylor St, Room 413, Chicago, IL 60612, USA. tgh@uic.edu
Zemon
David H
DH
Campbell
Donielle
D
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D004856:Postural Balance / Q000502:physiology; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012371:Robotics; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016138:Walking / Q000502:physiology*; D016474:Weight-Bearing / Q000502:physiology