Virtual Reality-Integrated Limb Propulsion Visual Feedback System for End-Effector Robot-Assisted Stroke Rehabilitation
The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston
Summary
This study evaluates a novel Virtual Reality (VR)-integrated visual feedback system designed to enhance limb propulsion during robot-assisted gait rehabilitation in individuals post-stroke. In collaboration with CUREXO, a rehabilitation robotics company, the system is embedded within the Morning Walk® end-effector robot and provides real-time visual feedback to facilitate symmetrical use of the paretic and non-paretic limbs. The goal is to address gait asymmetry commonly observed in hemiparetic stroke survivors by promoting improved paretic leg propulsion, which is a key contributor to forward movement during walking. A total of 30 participants (15 stroke, 15 healthy controls) aged 20 years or older will undergo single-session gait training using the VR-robot system. Participants will be assessed using spatiotemporal gait parameters, muscle activity, foot pressure, and vertical ground reaction forces. Additional safety measures-including a saddle-type weight support and real-time heart rate monitoring via smartwatch-are implemented to ensure a safe and controlled training environment. This study aims to test the feasibility and effectiveness of this VR-based system in improving gait symmetry and functional walking capacity in people recovering from stroke.
Description
Introduction and Purpose: People with hemiparetic stroke often exhibit gait asymmetry due to reduced propulsion from the paretic leg. This contributes to overreliance on the non-paretic leg and leads to inefficient, energy-consuming walking patterns. Traditional rehabilitation, including robot-assisted gait training, typically emphasizes repetitive motion but lacks a specific focus on propulsion, limiting its potential to promote neuroplasticity and symmetrical gait. To address this limitation, the research team has developed a Virtual Reality (VR)-based visual feedback system that delivers…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 20+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 20 years or older. * For post-stroke participants: * Diagnosis of stroke at least 1 month prior to participation. * Able to walk at least 10 meters with or without assistive devices. For healthy participants: ° Must walk independently without assistive devices. Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals with a life expectancy of less than one year. * Comatose individuals. * Individuals unable to follow three-step commands. * Individuals with lower limb amputation. * Individuals with poorly controlled diabetes (e.g., foot ulceration). * Individuals with legal blind…
Interventions
- BehavioralVR-Based Gait Training with End-Effector Robot
A single-session gait training protocol using the Morning Walk® end-effector robot with real-time virtual reality visual feedback to encourage paretic limb propulsion and symmetrical gait. This intervention is intended to study participants' behavioral and biomechanical responses to the VR feedback, not to evaluate the robot as a device.
Location
- University of Texas Medical BranchGalveston, Texas