Research Projects

R2. Short and Long-Term Adaptation of Over-Ground Ambulation in Subjects with Chronic Stroke following Robotic-Assistance, Body Weight Supported Gait Training

Abstract

Individuals with difficulty performing over-ground ambulation following stroke are less active in the community and remain home-bound. Providing specific gait training may improve over-ground walking performance and therefore increase community re-integration. The objective of this proposal is to determine the short and long term adaptations in over-ground walking ability and community re-integration in individuals with chronic stroke following specific gait training and motor learning paradigms. We will assess walking ability immediately following single and multiple training sessions using body-weight supported treadmill training (BWSTT) with the assistance of a powered robotic orthosis (the "Lokomat"®). Our goal is to optimize the strategy for maximizing the rate and extent of recovery of walking capability following stroke. Our specific aims are as follows: to assess the efficacy of robotic-assisted (i.e., guided) BWSTT to enhance walking ability in individuals in the chronic stages of stroke (> 6 months); 2) to assess the efficacy of visual-biofeedback during robotic-assisted BWSTT to enhance walking ability in individuals in the chronic stages of stroke; and, 3) to acquire preliminary data on the effects of compliant (i.e., adaptive) robotic assistance during BWSTT to enhance gait characteristics in individuals with chronic stroke.

Contact Information: George Hornby, PhD, PT
g-hornby@northwestern.edu

This figure illustrates the Lokomat exoskeletal apparatus used to retrain locomotion using BWSTT with robotic assistance. Four DC motors are aligned to the hip and knee joints bilaterally, with limbs secured by straps on the thigh and shank portions of the exoskeleton. The foot is secured in an elastic strap held by the shank of the exoskeleton prevent toe drag, and the trunk and pelvis are secured to back rests attached to the device. The Lokomat provides controlled trajectory robotic assistance during ambulation over a treadmill belt to enhance locomotor recovery following SCI or stroke.