Utilization of Robotic EksoSkeleton to Achieve High Dosing, Intensity, and Complexity of Gait in Treatment of People With Parkinson's Disease
Albert Einstein Healthcare Network
Summary
The goal of this study is to see how well therapy with the Eksobionic Exoskeleton (Esko) works for people with Parkinson's disease (PWPD). Esko is a robotic device that provides high repetition and intensity training. The investigators will examine its impact on walking, balance, and quality of life before, during and after an eight-week intervention program. The results will lay the groundwork for future trials, potentially leading to long-term improvements in mobility and quality of life for PWPD.
Description
The study will enroll up to 24 participants with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) and gait or balance impairment, ranging from Hoehn and Yahr stage 1-4. The overall study design consists of an initial assessment followed by physical therapy treatment utilizing the Ekso robotic device. The treatment will take place two times per week for eight weeks, with outcome measures performed during the evaluation, re-evaluation on visit 9, last session, and on a 3 month follow up. Each treatment session will last 60 minutes, divided into set-up, three 15-minute segments, and a wrap-up. Throughout the…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Physician diagnosed idiopathic Parkinson's disease 2. All Hoehn and Yahr (H\&Y) stages will be eligible for inclusion in the study 3. Able to consent to participation in the research study 4. Pt agreeable to participate in 45-60 minutes of high intensity (RPE 14-17 for 30 minutes) gait training/ physical therapy. 5. Sufficient upper extremity strength to use a front wheeled walker 6. Pt to have self- reported walking/balance deficits 7. Age: Over age 18 8. Must be able to tolerate at least 15 min upright 9. Weigh 220 pounds (100kg) or less 10. Approximately between 5'0"…
Interventions
- DeviceEksobionics Eksoskeleton NR
During treatment sessions, the therapist will guide the participant's progress using a specific plan. The therapist will set a trajectory for each leg, determining the appropriate step height and length, and program it into the Ekso device. The Ekso will then assist the participant by following this trajectory, with varying levels of assistance for each step. As the participant improves, the therapist will gradually reduce the assistance provided until the participant reaches a point where they no longer require assistance or reach a plateau. In the final phase, the trajectory will be removed, and the participant will walk using their own movements. The therapist may add resistance or assistance based on the participant's needs, but it will be in line with their self-generated movements rather than a predetermined path.
Location
- Jefferson Moss-Magee Rehabilitation - Elkins ParkElkins Park, Pennsylvania