Robot-assisted Gait Training and Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation in Chronic Non-ambulatory Stroke Survivors: Pilot RCT Trial
University of Kansas Medical Center
Summary
Rehabilitation interventions commonly used for stroke survivors include task-specific training, balance and strength exercises, and the use of assistive devices to enhance mobility and independence. Advanced technologies, such as body-weight-supported treadmill systems and robotic devices, may be employed when appropriate. Current rehabilitation therapies for stroke survivors are moderately effective with a limited effect size, especially in stroke survivors with severe impairment. Novel therapies, such as transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS), may further improve outcomes in the target population. This pilot study will allow us to examine the feasibility and gather pilot data on a combined intervention of assistive gait training and tSCS in non-ambulatory stroke survivors.
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–80 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age 18-80 years at time of consent 2. All genders included. 3. Chronic ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke \>=6 months, with limited within-home comfortable walking speed \<= 0.49 m/s and unable to walk independently in community (FAC \<= 3) 4. Able to communicate with investigators, follow 2-step command, and correctly answer consent comprehension questions in English. 5. Currently not participating in treadmill walking exercises or exercises involving weight-bearing activities. 6. Have physicians' approval for exercise and be in a stable medical condition Exclusion Criter…
Interventions
- DeviceRobot-assisted gait training and transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation in chronic non-ambulatory stroke survivors: pilot RCT trial
Participants in the experimental group will receive 30 minutes of robot assisted gait training (RAGT) transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation 3 times per week, 8 weeks, totaling 24 sessions. The gait training will utilize a treadmill equipped with a partial-body-weight support system and a lab-developed RAGT device. The RAGT protocol will be the same as in the control group
- DeviceRobot assisted gait training alone
Participants in the control group will receive 30 minutes of assisted gait training (RAGT), 3 times per week, for 8 weeks, totaling 24 sessions. The gait training will utilize a treadmill equipped with a partial-body-weight support system and a lab-developed RAGT device
Location
- Neuromuscular Research LaboratoryKansas City, Kansas