Improving Gait Performance in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injuries: an Intervention Using Robotic Exoskeletons

Improving Gait Performance in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injuries: an Intervention Using Robotic Exoskeletons

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether robotic exoskeleton training can improve walking performance after SCI as compared to conventional physical therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Motor Incomplete spinal cord injury, as classified by American Spinal Injury Association guidelines, above the lumbar level (T12 and above).
• Able to independently stand for two minutes with or without an assistive device and with or without orthoses distal to the knee.
• Male or non-pregnant woman
• ≥ 18-years of age
• At least 6 months after injury
• Height between 5'2" and 6'2" (150-188 cm)
• Weight ≤ 220 pounds (100 kg)
• Ability to perform informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of clinical signs of lower motor neuron injury
• History of severe neurologic injuries other than SCI (MS, CP, ALS, TBI, CVA, etc.)
• Severe comorbidities: active infections, heart, lung, or circulatory conditions, pressure ulcers.
• Documented severe osteoporosis affecting the hip and spine
• Severe spasticity in the lower extremities (Modified Ashworth ≥ 3) or uncontrolled clonus
• Unstable spine
• Unhealed limb or pelvic fractures
• Skin issues that would prevent wearing the device
• Range of motion restrictions that would prevent subject from achieving a normal, reciprocal gait pattern, or would restrict a subject from completing normal sit to stand or stand to sit transitions.
• Upper extremity strength deficits that limit ability to balance with a front rolling walker or crutches.
• Heterotopic ossification that resists functional range of motion in lower extremities
• Contractures (>15 degrees at the hips or >20 degrees at the knees)
• Psychiatric or cognitive comorbidities resulting in motor planning or impulsivity concerns
• Colostomy
• Have received any physical therapy intervention within 3 months prior to enrolment in the study
• Non-English speaking