Effect of Robotised Gait Training on Dynamic Balance, Symmetry and Push-off in Persons After Stroke

Effect of Robotised Gait Training on Dynamic Balance, Symmetry and Push-off in Persons After Stroke

Rehabilitation robotics is increasingly used because it enables the patients to practice a wide array of movements. Dynamic balance training is essential for gait rehabilitation and robotised devices enhance repeatability, objectivity and precision of such training combined with monitoring and recording of kinematic and kinetic data. The aim of the study is to explore the effect of robot-assisted gait training on dynamic balance, symmetry and take-off in patients after stroke. The investigators will conduct a randomised intervention study where one group will receive visual feedback on gait status and the other group will receive kinetically-assisted training using a robotised device in addition to the visual feedback.

Gait training will start 3 weeks after admission to inpatient rehabilitation. It will last for 3 weeks, 5 times per week, 30 minutes per day. The first few sessions with the robotic device will serve to familiarise the patient with the BART device and training conditions. Further details are described in the Arms and Interventions section.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Subacute phase after first ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke (less than 6 months after stroke);
• Limb hemiparesis;
• Ability to walk independently (FAC 6) or with assistance (FAC 5) on flat and uneven surfaces, stairs and slopes;
• Adequate cardiovascular ability (NYHA 1).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Degenerative process or postoperative condition on lower-limb joints that would hinder gait;
• Associated neurological disease;
• Decreased cognitive ability (KPSS < 25).