A Comparison of Conventional Physical Therapy, Powered Exoskeleton, and Hybrid Physical Therapy With Exoskeleton

A Comparison of Conventional Physical Therapy, Powered Exoskeleton, and Hybrid Physical Therapy With Exoskeleton in the Treatment of Individuals With Sub-acute and Chronic Stroke.

The purpose of this investigator-initiated study is to establish if powered exoskeleton therapy as a part of a rehabilitation program can be used as a standard of care in stroke rehabilitation.

This prospective randomized control trial with three treatment arms will begin by:

• Determining if the subject is a candidate for exoskeleton treatment.
• Randomly assigning subjects to three groups (physical therapy only, exoskeleton only, or a hybrid of physical therapy and exoskeleton).
• Body measurements to individualize the fit of the exoskeleton to each subject at each session.
• Activities-based balance confidence (ABC) questionnaire will be administered before and after the study begins.
• Timed up and go test (TUGT).
• Ten-meter walk test (10MWT).
• Six-minute walk test (6MWT)
• Berg Balance Test (BBT).
• Five times sit to stand (5XSTS).
• Heart rate through a portable heartrate monitor.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Males and Females 18 years of age or older post-stroke

  • 3 Ashworth score are involved in a standing program less than 220 lbs 5'0" through 6'4" have the ability to follow one-step commands near normal range-of-motion for the knees, hips, and ankles

Exclusion Criteria:

• Exclusion criteria will include those who have already experienced powered exoskeleton therapy.