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van Nes IJ, van Dijsseldonk RB, van Herpen FH, Rijken H, Geurts AC, Keijsers NL. Improvement of quality of life after 2-month exoskeleton training in patients with chronic spinal cord injury. J Spinal Cord Med 2024; 47:354-360. [PMID: 35377297 PMCID: PMC11044750 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2022.2052502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine changes in quality of life (QoL) after an eight-week period of robotic exoskeleton training in a homogeneous group of patients with chronic complete spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN Prospective single-group pre-post study. SETTING Rehabilitation center. PARTICIPANTS Patients with a chronic (>6 months) motor complete SCI (T1-L1). INTERVENTION Twenty-four training sessions with the ReWalk exoskeleton over an eight-week period. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE QoL, assessed with the sum score of the Short Form-36 with Walk Wheel modification (SF-36ww). Secondary outcome measures were the eight SF-36ww subdomains, satisfaction with bladder and bowel management, lower extremity joint passive range of motion (pROM), and lower extremity spasticity. RESULTS Twenty-one participants completed the training. QoL significantly improved after the training period (average SF-36 sum score 621 ± 90) compared to baseline (571 ± 133) (t(20)=-2.5, P=.02). Improvements were seen on the SF-36ww subdomains for pain (P=.003), social functioning (P=.03), mental health (P=.02), and general health perception (P=.01). Satisfaction with bladder management (range 1-5) improved from median 3 at baseline to 4 after exoskeleton training (P=0.01). No changes in satisfaction with bowel management (P=.11), pROM (hip-extension (P=.49), knee-extension (P=.36), ankle dorsiflexion (P=.69)), or spasticity (P=.94) were found. CONCLUSION Even in patients with chronic motor complete SCI and a relatively high level of QoL at baseline, a short-term exoskeleton training improved their QoL, pain and satisfaction with bladder management; findings that warrant further controlled studies in this specific SCI population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilse J.W. van Nes
- Department of Rehabilitation, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rosanne B. van Dijsseldonk
- Department of Research, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frank H.M. van Herpen
- Department of Rehabilitation, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Canisius Wilhelmina Hospital, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Hennie Rijken
- Department of Rehabilitation, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Alexander C.H. Geurts
- Department of Research, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Noël L.W. Keijsers
- Department of Research, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Rehabilitation, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Cumplido-Trasmonte C, Barquín-Santos E, Garcés-Castellote E, Gor-García-Fogeda MD, Plaza-Flores A, Hernández-Melero M, Gutiérrez-Ayala A, Cano-de-la-Cuerda R, López-Morón AL, García-Armada E. Safety and usability of the MAK exoskeleton in patients with stroke. PHYSIOTHERAPY RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 29:e2038. [PMID: 37477024 DOI: 10.1002/pri.2038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability in adults worldwide, and one of the main objectives in the rehabilitation of these patients is to recover the gait. New technologies have emerged to cope with this issue, complementing conventional therapy with the use of devices such as exoskeletons. The Marsi Active Knee (MAK) exoskeleton (Marsi Bionics SL, Madrid, Spain) has already been tested, but an updated version was improved to allow the patients to perform functional exercises. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and usability of the MAK in the stroke population as well as its potential clinical effects. METHODS A single-group open label intervention trial was conducted. The device was used twice a week for 5 weeks during 1 h per visit. During the visits, sit-to-stand transitions, walking, stair climbing, trunk rotations, and weight-transfer exercises were performed using the device. Adverse events were collected from participants and therapists to assess safety. The Quebec User Evaluation of the Satisfaction with assistive Technology (QUEST 2.0) was used by both therapists and participants to assess usability. To evaluate its clinical effects, active range of motion (ROM) and muscle strength were assessed in the lower limb. RESULTS Six participants with stroke were recruited. The device was shown to be safe since no serious adverse events were reported neither by patients nor by therapists. Every proposed exercise was performed. Regarding clinical effects, overall muscle strength showed an increase after the treatment, although ROM measurements did not show any difference. DISCUSSION Our results suggest that the MAK device is safe for stroke patients. Nevertheless, further changes to enhance usability are recommended, such as an improvement of the attachment system and an adaptation for the drop foot. Beneficial effects regarding increases in muscle strength were obtained. Further trials with a larger sample size, longer intervention periods, and a control group are needed to verify these results. Also, future research should focus on the usability of the MAK as an assistive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Cumplido-Trasmonte
- International Doctoral School, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
- Marsi Bionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
| | | | - E Garcés-Castellote
- Marsi Bionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
- Doctoral Program in Health Sciences, Alcalá de Henares University, Madrid, Spain
| | - M D Gor-García-Fogeda
- Marsi Bionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | - A Plaza-Flores
- Marsi Bionics S.L., Madrid, Spain
- Polytechnic University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Hernández-Melero
- Centre for Automation and Robotics, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC-UPM), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - R Cano-de-la-Cuerda
- Department of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - E García-Armada
- Centre for Automation and Robotics, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC-UPM), Madrid, Spain
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Wright MA, Herzog F, Mas-Vinyals A, Carnicero-Carmona A, Lobo-Prat J, Hensel C, Franz S, Weidner N, Vidal J, Opisso E, Rupp R. Multicentric investigation on the safety, feasibility and usability of the ABLE lower-limb robotic exoskeleton for individuals with spinal cord injury: a framework towards the standardisation of clinical evaluations. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2023; 20:45. [PMID: 37046307 PMCID: PMC10091314 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-023-01165-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Robotic lower-limb exoskeletons have the potential to provide additional clinical benefits for persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, high variability between protocols does not allow the comparison of study results on safety and feasibility between different exoskeletons. We therefore incorporated key aspects from previous studies into our study protocol and accordingly conducted a multicentre study investigating the safety, feasibility and usability of the ABLE Exoskeleton in clinical settings. METHODS In this prospective pretest-posttest quasi-experimental study across two SCI centres in Germany and Spain, in- and outpatients with SCI were recruited into a 12-session training and assessment protocol, utilising the ABLE Exoskeleton. A follow-up visit after 4 weeks was included to assess after-training outcomes. Safety outcomes (device-related adverse events (AEs), number of drop-outs), feasibility and usability measures (level of assistance, donning/doffing-time) were recorded at every session together with changes in gait parameters and function. Patient-reported outcome measures including the rate of perceived exertion (RPE) and the psychosocial impact of the device were performed. Satisfaction with the device was evaluated in both participants and therapists. RESULTS All 24 participants (45 ± 12 years), with mainly subacute SCI (< 1 year after injury) from C5 to L3, (ASIA Impairment Scale A to D) completed the follow-up. In 242 training sessions, 8 device-related AEs (pain and skin lesions) were reported. Total time for don and doff was 6:50 ± 2:50 min. Improvements in level of assistance and gait parameters (time, steps, distance and speed, p < 0.05) were observed in all participants. Walking function and RPE improved in participants able to complete walking tests with (n = 9) and without (n = 6) the device at study start (p < 0.05). A positive psychosocial impact of the exoskeleton was reported and the satisfaction with the device was good, with best ratings in safety (participants), weight (therapists), durability and dimensions (both). CONCLUSIONS Our study results prove the feasibility of safe gait training with the ABLE Exoskeleton in hospital settings for persons with SCI, with improved clinical outcomes after training. Our study protocol allowed for consistent comparison of the results with other exoskeleton trials and can serve as a future framework towards the standardisation of early clinical evaluations. Trial Registration https://trialsearch.who.int/ , DRKS00023503, retrospectively registered on November 18, 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Andrew Wright
- Institut Guttmann, University Institute attached to the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Franziska Herzog
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Cornelia Hensel
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Steffen Franz
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Norbert Weidner
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Joan Vidal
- Institut Guttmann, University Institute attached to the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eloy Opisso
- Institut Guttmann, University Institute attached to the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
- Fundació Institut d'Investigació en Ciències de la Salut Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rüdiger Rupp
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Heidelberg University Hospital, Schlierbacher Landstraße 200a, 69118, Heidelberg, Germany.
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Chandran VD, Nam S, Hexner D, Bauman WA, Pal S. Comparison of the dynamics of exoskeletal-assisted and unassisted locomotion in an FDA-approved lower extremity device: Controlled experiments and development of a subject-specific virtual simulator. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0270078. [PMID: 36763637 PMCID: PMC9916583 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0270078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Robotic exoskeletons have considerable, but largely untapped, potential to restore mobility in individuals with neurological disorders, and other conditions that result in partial or complete immobilization. The growing demand for these devices necessitates the development of technology to characterize the human-robot system during exoskeletal-assisted locomotion (EAL) and accelerate robot design refinements. The goal of this study was to combine controlled experiments with computational modeling to build a virtual simulator of EAL. The first objective was to acquire a minimum empirical dataset comprising human-robot kinematics, ground reaction forces, and electromyography during exoskeletal-assisted and unassisted locomotion from an able-bodied participant. The second objective was to quantify the dynamics of the human-robot system using a subject-specific virtual simulator reproducing EAL compared to the dynamics of normal gait. We trained an able-bodied participant to ambulate independently in a Food and Drug Administration-approved exoskeleton, the ReWalk P6.0 (ReWalk Robotics, Yoknaem, Israel). We analyzed the motion of the participant during exoskeletal-assisted and unassisted walking, sit-to-stand, and stand-to-sit maneuvers, with simultaneous measurements of (i) three-dimensional marker trajectories, (ii) ground reaction forces, (iii) electromyography, and (iv) exoskeleton encoder data. We created a virtual simulator in OpenSim, comprising a whole-body musculoskeletal model and a full-scale exoskeleton model, to determine the joint kinematics and moments during exoskeletal-assisted and unassisted maneuvers. Mean peak knee flexion angles of the human subject during exoskeletal-assisted walking were 50.1° ± 0.6° (left) and 52.6° ± 0.7° (right), compared to 68.6° ± 0.3° (left) and 70.7° ± 1.1° (right) during unassisted walking. Mean peak knee extension moments during exoskeletal-assisted walking were 0.10 ± 0.10 Nm/kg (left) and 0.22 ± 0.11 Nm/kg (right), compared to 0.64 ± 0.07 Nm/kg (left) and 0.73 ± 0.10 Nm/kg (right) during unassisted walking. This work provides a foundation for parametric studies to characterize the effects of human and robot design variables, and predictive modeling to optimize human-robot interaction during EAL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishnu D. Chandran
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Sanghyun Nam
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
| | | | - William A. Bauman
- James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, United States of America
- Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation & Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Saikat Pal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
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Stampacchia G, Gazzotti V, Olivieri M, Andrenelli E, Bonaiuti D, Calabro RS, Carmignano SM, Cassio A, Fundaro C, Companini I, Mazzoli D, Cerulli S, Chisari C, Colombo V, Dalise S, Mazzoleni D, Melegari C, Merlo A, Boldrini P, Mazzoleni S, Posteraro F, Mazzucchelli M, Benanti P, Castelli E, Draicchio F, Falabella V, Galeri S, Gimigliano F, Grigioni M, Mazzon S, Molteni F, Morone G, Petrarca M, Picelli A, Senatore M, Turchetti G, Bizzarrini E. Gait robot-assisted rehabilitation in persons with spinal cord injury: A scoping review. NeuroRehabilitation 2022; 51:609-647. [PMID: 36502343 DOI: 10.3233/nre-220061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many robots are available for gait rehabilitation (BWSTRT and ORET) and their application in persons with SCI allowed an improvement of walking function. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to compare the effects of different robotic exoskeletons gait training in persons with different SCI level and severity. METHODS Sixty-two studies were included in this systematic review; the study quality was assessed according to GRADE and PEDro's scale. RESULTS Quality assessment of included studies (n = 62) demonstrated a prevalence of evidence level 2; the quality of the studies was higher for BWSTRT (excellent and good) than for ORET (fair and good). Almost all persons recruited for BWSTRT had an incomplete SCI; both complete and incomplete SCI were recruited for ORET. The SCI lesion level in the persons recruited for BWSTRT are from cervical to sacral; mainly from thoracic to sacral for ORET; a high representation of AIS D lesion resulted both for BWSTRT (30%) and for ORET (45%). The walking performance, tested with 10MWT, 6MWT, TUG and WISCI, improved after exoskeleton training in persons with incomplete SCI lesions, when at least 20 sessions were applied. Persons with complete SCI lesions improved the dexterity in walking with exoskeleton, but did not recover independent walking function; symptoms such as spasticity, pain and cardiovascular endurance improved. CONCLUSION Different exoskeletons are available for walking rehabilitation in persons with SCI. The choice about the kind of robotic gait training should be addressed on the basis of the lesion severity and the possible comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Valeria Gazzotti
- Centro Protesi Vigorso di Budrio, Istituto Nazionale Assicurazione Infortuni sul Lavoro (INAIL), Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Andrenelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | | | - Simona Maria Carmignano
- Rehabilitation Therapeutic Center (CTR), Potenza, Italy.,University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Anna Cassio
- Spinal Cord Unit and Intensive Rehabilitation Medicine, Ospedale di Fiorenzuola d'Arda, AUSL Piacenza, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Cira Fundaro
- Neurophysiopathology Unit, Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, IRCCS Montescano, Pavia, Italy
| | - Isabella Companini
- Department of Neuromotor and Rehabilitation, LAM-Motion Analysis Laboratory, San Sebastiano Hospital, AUSL-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - David Mazzoli
- Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory, Sol et Salus Ospedale Privato Accreditato, Rimini, Italy
| | - Simona Cerulli
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmelo Chisari
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Neurorehabiltation Section, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Stefania Dalise
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, Neurorehabiltation Section, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniele Mazzoleni
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Andrea Merlo
- Gait and Motion Analysis Laboratory, Sol et Salus Ospedale Privato Accreditato, Rimini, Italy
| | - Paolo Boldrini
- Italian Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (SIMFER), Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzoleni
- Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Politecnico di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Federico Posteraro
- Department of Rehabilitation, Versilia Hospital - AUSL12, Viareggio, Italy
| | | | | | - Enrico Castelli
- Department of Paediatric Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Draicchio
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine Epidemiology and Hygiene, INAIL, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Falabella
- Italian Federation of Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries (FAIP Onlus), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Gimigliano
- Department of Mental, Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Mauro Grigioni
- National Center for Innovative Technologies in Public Health, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Mazzon
- Rehabilitation Unit, ULSS (Local Health Authority) Euganea, Camposampiero Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Franco Molteni
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Villa Beretta Rehabilitation Center, Valduce Hospital, Lecco, Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Petrarca
- Movement Analysis and Robotics Laboratory (MARlab), IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Picelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Senatore
- Associazione Italiana dei Terapisti Occupazionali (AITO), Rome, Italy
| | | | - Emiliana Bizzarrini
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Spinal Cord Unit, Gervasutta Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale (ASU FC), Udine, Italy
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Bigford GE, Garshick E. Systemic inflammation after spinal cord injury: A review of biological evidence, related health risks, and potential therapies. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2022; 67:102303. [PMID: 36206621 PMCID: PMC9929918 DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2022.102303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with chronic traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) develop progressive multi-system health problems that result in clinical illness and disability. Systemic inflammation is associated with many of the common medical complications and acquired diseases that accompany chronic SCI, suggesting that it contributes to a number of comorbid pathological conditions. However, many of the mechanisms that promote persistent systemic inflammation and its consequences remain ill-defined. This review describes the significant biological factors that contribute to systemic inflammation, major organ systems affected, health risks, and the potential treatment strategies. We aim to highlight the need for a better understanding of inflammatory processes, and to establish appropriate strategies to address inflammation in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory E Bigford
- Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Eric Garshick
- Pulmonary, Allergy, Sleep, and Critical Care Medicine Section, VA Boston Healthcare System, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Vouga T, Fasola J, Baud R, Manzoori AR, Pache J, Bouri M. TWIICE One powered exoskeleton: effect of design improvements on usability in daily life as measured by the performance in the CYBATHLON race. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2022; 19:63. [PMID: 35761399 PMCID: PMC9238043 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-022-01028-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 08/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Spinal cord injury leading to paraplegia affects the mobility and physiological well-being of one in a thousand people. Powered exoskeletons can temporarily restore the ability to walk. Their relevance in daily life is still limited because of low performance beyond ground that is even. CYBATHLON is an international competition promoting improvements in assistive technology. In this article, we present the latest design and results of testing of TWIICE One version 2018, one of the competing devices in the 2020 race. Methods A person with a motor-complete spinal cord injury at thoracic level T10 participated as race pilot. Training ahead of the race took place over one week at a rate of 2 h per day. The time to perform each of the seven tasks of the competition was recorded together with the number of repetitions. Performance is compared over the training period and against the 2016 race results. Results Progression was observed in all tasks and accounted for by both user training and technology improvements. Final competition rank was second out of seven participating teams, with a record time of 4′40". This represents an average improvement of 40% with respect to comparable obstacles of the 2016 race, explaining the two ranks of improvement since then. Conclusion These results help understand which features had a positive impact on the real-life performance of the device. Understanding how design affects performance is key information to create devices that really improve the life of people living with paraplegia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Mohamed Bouri
- Biorobotics Laboratory (BioRob), EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Translational Neural Engineering Laboratory (TNE), EPFL, Campus Biotech, Geneva, Switzerland
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Chen S, Wang Z, Li Y, Tang J, Wang X, Huang L, Fang Z, Xu T, Xu J, Guo F, Wang Y, Long J, Wang X, Liu F, Luo J, Wang Y, Huang X, Jia Z, Shuai M, Li J. Safety and Feasibility of a Novel Exoskeleton for Locomotor Rehabilitation of Subjects With Spinal Cord Injury: A Prospective, Multi-Center, and Cross-Over Clinical Trial. Front Neurorobot 2022; 16:848443. [PMID: 35645758 PMCID: PMC9133609 DOI: 10.3389/fnbot.2022.848443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the safety, walking efficiency, physiological cost, don and doff time cost, and user satisfaction of Ai-robot. Design Prospective, multi-center, and cross-over trial. Subjects Paraplegic subjects (n = 40) with T6-L2 level spinal cord injury. Methods Subjects who could walk independently using Aiwalker, Ailegs, and hip knee ankle foot orthosis (HKAFO) for 6 min within 30 days of training underwent 10 sets of tests. In each set, they completed three 6-min walk test (6MWT) sessions using the three aids in random order. Results Skin lesions, pressure sores, and fractures, were the main adverse events, likely due to a lack of experience in using exoskeleton systems. The average 6MWT distances of the Aiwalker, Ailegs, and HKAFO groups were 134.20 ± 18.74, 79.71 ± 18.06, and 48.31 ± 19.87 m, respectively. The average heart rate increases in the Aiwalker (4.21 ± 8.20%) and Ailegs (41.81 ± 23.47%) groups were both significantly lower than that in the HKAFO group (62.33 ± 28.32%) (both p < 0.001). The average donning/doffing time costs for Ailegs and Aiwalker were significantly shorter than that of HKAFO (both p < 0.001). Satisfaction was higher in the Ailegs and Aiwalker groups (both p < 0.001). Conclusion Subjects with paraplegia below T6 level were able to ambulate safely and efficiently with Ai-robot. The use of Ai-robot should be learned under the guidance of experienced medical personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijing Chen
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhanbin Wang
- School of Automation Science and Electrical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongqiang Li
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiashuai Tang
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Liping Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuangwei Fang
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tao Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiang Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yizhao Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jianjun Long
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaodong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianfeng Luo
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulong Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiaolin Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zishan Jia
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Medical Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Mei Shuai
- School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beijing Advanced Innovation Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Jianan Li
- Center of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Zhongshan Geriatric Rehabilitation Hospital, Nanjing, China
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9
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Zhang L, Lin F, Sun L, Chen C. Comparison of Efficacy of Lokomat and Wearable Exoskeleton-Assisted Gait Training in People With Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. Front Neurol 2022; 13:772660. [PMID: 35493806 PMCID: PMC9044921 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.772660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveLokomat and wearable exoskeleton-assisted walking (EAW) have not been directly compared previously. To conduct a network meta-analysis of randomized and non-randomized controlled trials to assess locomotor abilities achieved with two different types of robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) program in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI).MethodsThree electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library, were systematically searched for randomized and non-randomized controlled trials published before August 2021, which assessed locomotor abilities after RAGT.ResultsOf 319 studies identified for this review, 12 studies were eligible and included in our analysis. Studies from 2013 to 2021 were covered and contained 353 valid data points (N-353) on patients with SCI receiving wearable EWA and Lokomat training. In the case of wearable EAW, the 10-m walk test (10-MWT) distance and speed scores significantly increased [distance: 0.85 (95% CI = 0.35, 1.34); speed: −1.76 (95% CI = −2.79, −0.73)]. The 6-min walk test (6-MWT) distance [−1.39 (95% CI = −2.01, −0.77)] and the timed up and go (TUG) test significantly increased [(1.19 (95% CI = 0.74, 1.64)], but no significant difference was observed in the walking index for spinal cord injury (WISCI-II) [−0.33 (95% CI = −0.79, 0.13)]. Among the patients using Lokomat, the 10-MWT-distance score significantly increased [−0.08 (95% CI = −0.14, −0.03)] and a significant increase in the WISCI-II was found [1.77 (95% CI = 0.23, 3.31)]. The result of network meta-analysis showed that the probability of wearable EAW to rank first and that of Lokomat to rank second was 89 and 47%, respectively, in the 10-MWT speed score, while that of Lokomat to rank first and wearable EAW to rank second was 73 and 63% in the WISCI-II scores.ConclusionLokomat and wearable EAW had effects on the performance of locomotion abilities, namely, distance, speed, and function. Wearable EAW might lead to better outcomes in walking speed compared with that in the case of Lokomat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingjie Zhang
- School of Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Fabin Lin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lei Sun
- School of Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Lei Sun
| | - Chunmei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Chunmei Chen
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10
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Tamburella F, Lorusso M, Tramontano M, Fadlun S, Masciullo M, Scivoletto G. Overground robotic training effects on walking and secondary health conditions in individuals with spinal cord injury: systematic review. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2022; 19:27. [PMID: 35292044 PMCID: PMC8922901 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-022-01003-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Overground powered lower limb exoskeletons (EXOs) have proven to be valid devices in gait rehabilitation in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Although several articles have reported the effects of EXOs in these individuals, the few reviews available focused on specific domains, mainly walking. The aim of this systematic review is to provide a general overview of the effects of commercial EXOs (i.e. not EXOs used in military and industry applications) for medical purposes in individuals with SCI. This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines and it referred to MED-LINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Cochrane library databases. The studies included were Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) and non-RCT based on EXOs intervention on individuals with SCI. Out of 1296 studies screened, 41 met inclusion criteria. Among all the EXO studies, the Ekso device was the most discussed, followed by ReWalk, Indego, HAL and Rex devices. Since 14 different domains were considered, the outcome measures were heterogeneous. The most investigated domain was walking, followed by cardiorespiratory/metabolic responses, spasticity, balance, quality of life, human–robot interaction, robot data, bowel functionality, strength, daily living activity, neurophysiology, sensory function, bladder functionality and body composition/bone density domains. There were no reports of negative effects due to EXOs trainings and most of the significant positive effects were noted in the walking domain for Ekso, ReWalk, HAL and Indego devices. Ekso studies reported significant effects due to training in almost all domains, while this was not the case with the Rex device. Not a single study carried out on sensory functions or bladder functionality reached significance for any EXO. It is not possible to draw general conclusions about the effects of EXOs usage due to the lack of high-quality studies as addressed by the Downs and Black tool, the heterogeneity of the outcome measures, of the protocols and of the SCI epidemiological/neurological features. However, the strengths and weaknesses of EXOs are starting to be defined, even considering the different types of adverse events that EXO training brought about. EXO training showed to bring significant improvements over time, but whether its effectiveness is greater or less than conventional therapy or other treatments is still mostly unknown. High-quality RCTs are necessary to better define the pros and cons of the EXOs available today. Studies of this kind could help clinicians to better choose the appropriate training for individuals with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Tamburella
- I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation (FSL), Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179, Rome, Italy.
| | - Matteo Lorusso
- I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation (FSL), Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Tramontano
- I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation (FSL), Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Fadlun
- I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation (FSL), Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcella Masciullo
- I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation (FSL), Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179, Rome, Italy
| | - Giorgio Scivoletto
- I.R.C.C.S. Santa Lucia Foundation (FSL), Via Ardeatina, 306, 00179, Rome, Italy
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11
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Review of tDCS Configurations for Stimulation of the Lower-Limb Area of Motor Cortex and Cerebellum. Brain Sci 2022; 12:brainsci12020248. [PMID: 35204011 PMCID: PMC8870282 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci12020248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This article presents an exhaustive analysis of the works present in the literature pertaining to transcranial direct current stimulation(tDCS) applications. The aim of this work is to analyze the specific characteristics of lower-limb stimulation, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of these works and framing them with the current knowledge of tDCS. The ultimate goal of this work is to propose areas of improvement to create more effective stimulation therapies with less variability.
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12
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Chang CH, Casas J, Brose SW, Duenas VH. Closed-Loop Torque and Kinematic Control of a Hybrid Lower-Limb Exoskeleton for Treadmill Walking. Front Robot AI 2022; 8:702860. [PMID: 35127833 PMCID: PMC8811381 DOI: 10.3389/frobt.2021.702860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Restoring and improving the ability to walk is a top priority for individuals with movement impairments due to neurological injuries. Powered exoskeletons coupled with functional electrical stimulation (FES), called hybrid exoskeletons, exploit the benefits of activating muscles and robotic assistance for locomotion. In this paper, a cable-driven lower-limb exoskeleton is integrated with FES for treadmill walking at a constant speed. A nonlinear robust controller is used to activate the quadriceps and hamstrings muscle groups via FES to achieve kinematic tracking about the knee joint. Moreover, electric motors adjust the knee joint stiffness throughout the gait cycle using an integral torque feedback controller. For the hip joint, a robust sliding-mode controller is developed to achieve kinematic tracking using electric motors. The human-exoskeleton dynamic model is derived using Lagrangian dynamics and incorporates phase-dependent switching to capture the effects of transitioning from the stance to the swing phase, and vice versa. Moreover, low-level control input switching is used to activate individual muscles and motors to achieve flexion and extension about the hip and knee joints. A Lyapunov-based stability analysis is developed to ensure exponential tracking of the kinematic and torque closed-loop error systems, while guaranteeing that the control input signals remain bounded. The developed controllers were tested in real-time walking experiments on a treadmill in three able-bodied individuals at two gait speeds. The experimental results demonstrate the feasibility of coupling a cable-driven exoskeleton with FES for treadmill walking using a switching-based control strategy and exploiting both kinematic and force feedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Hao Chang
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Jonathan Casas
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Steven W. Brose
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, United States
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disabilities Service, Syracuse VA Medical Center, Syracuse, NY, United States
| | - Victor H. Duenas
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, United States
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13
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Sutor TW, Ghatas MP, Goetz LL, Lavis TD, Gorgey AS. Exoskeleton Training and Trans-Spinal Stimulation for Physical Activity Enhancement After Spinal Cord Injury (EXTra-SCI): An Exploratory Study. FRONTIERS IN REHABILITATION SCIENCES 2022; 2:789422. [PMID: 35169770 PMCID: PMC8842517 DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2021.789422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI) physical activity levels decrease drastically, leading to numerous secondary health complications. Exoskeleton-assisted walking (EAW) may be one way to improve physical activity for adults with SCI and potentially alleviate secondary health complications. The effects of EAW may be limited, however, since exoskeletons induce passive movement for users who cannot volitionally contribute to walking. Trans-spinal stimulation (TSS) has shown the potential to enable those with even the most severe SCI to actively contribute to movements during EAW. To explore the effects of EAW training on improving secondary health complications in persons with SCI, participants with chronic (n = 8) were enrolled in an EAW program 2-3 times per week for 12 weeks. Anthropometrics (seated and supine waist and abdominal circumferences (WC and AC), body composition assessment (dual exposure x-ray absorptiometry-derived body fat percent, lean mass and total mass for the total body, legs, and trunk), and peak oxygen consumption (VO2 during a 6-minute walk test [6MWT]) were assessed before and after 12 weeks of EAW training. A subset of participants (n = 3) completed EAW training with concurrent TSS, and neuromuscular activity of locomotor muscles was assessed during a 10-m walk test (10MWT) with and without TSS following 12 weeks of EAW training. Upon completion of 12 weeks of training, reductions from baseline (BL) were found in seated WC (-2.2%, P = 0.036), seated AC (-2.9%, P = 0.05), and supine AC (-3.9%, P = 0.017). Percent fat was also reduced from BL for the total body (-1.4%, P = 0.018), leg (-1.3%, P = 0.018), and trunk (-2%, P = 0.036) regions. No effects were found for peak VO2. The addition of TSS for three individuals yielded individualized responses but generally increased knee extensor activity during EAW. Two of three participants who received TSS were also able to initiate more steps without additional assistance from the exoskeleton during a 10MWT. In summary, 12 weeks of EAW training significantly attenuated markers of obesity relevant to cardiometabolic health in eight men with chronic SCI. Changes in VO2 and neuromuscular activity with vs. without TSS were highly individualized and yielded no overall group effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tommy W. Sutor
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Mina P. Ghatas
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Lance L. Goetz
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Timothy D. Lavis
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Ashraf S. Gorgey
- Spinal Cord Injury and Disorders Center, Hunter Holmes McGuire Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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14
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Pinto-Fernandez D, Torricelli D, Sanchez-Villamanan MDC, Aller F, Mombaur K, Conti R, Vitiello N, Moreno JC, Pons JL. Performance Evaluation of Lower Limb Exoskeletons: A Systematic Review. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2021; 28:1573-1583. [PMID: 32634096 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2020.2989481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Benchmarks have long been used to verify and compare the readiness level of different technologies in many application domains. In the field of wearable robots, the lack of a recognized benchmarking methodology is one important impediment that may hamper the efficient translation of research prototypes into actual products. At the same time, an exponentially growing number of research studies are addressing the problem of quantifying the performance of robotic exoskeletons, resulting in a rich and highly heterogeneous picture of methods, variables and protocols. This review aims to organize this information, and identify the most promising performance indicators that can be converted into practical benchmarks. We focus our analysis on lower limb functions, including a wide spectrum of motor skills and performance indicators. We found that, in general, the evaluation of lower limb exoskeletons is still largely focused on straight walking, with poor coverage of most of the basic motor skills that make up the activities of daily life. Our analysis also reveals a clear bias towards generic kinematics and kinetic indicators, in spite of the metrics of human-robot interaction. Based on these results, we identify and discuss a number of promising research directions that may help the community to attain a comprehensive benchmarking methodology for robot-assisted locomotion more efficiently.
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15
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Kogawa M, Miura K, Yasuda K, Ishibashi Y, Tsuda E. Effect of gait training using Hybrid Assistive Limb on gait ability and the risk for overwork weakness in the lower limb muscles in patients with neuromuscular diseases: a proof-of-concept study. Eur J Phys Rehabil Med 2021; 57:720-730. [PMID: 34105918 DOI: 10.23736/s1973-9087.21.06387-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few previous studies have reported the efficacy of robot rehabilitation for improving gait ability or its adverse events in patients with neuromuscular diseases. AIM The aim of the present study was to elucidate the effects of gait training with a hybrid assistive limb (HAL) on gait ability and to investigate serum enzyme levels associated with skeletal muscle damage. DESIGN a proof-of-concept study. POPULATION Twenty-one patients with neuromuscular disease (13 males and 8 females, mean age of 60.6 years). SETTING Department of rehabilitation medicine in university hospital. METHODS All patients underwent 1 to 7 series of gait rehabilitation which consisted of 9 sessions of HAL training. Gait ability was assessed with the 10-meter walk test and the 2-min walk test before and after HAL training, while serum creatine phosphokinase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactic acid dehydrogenase values were measured before, midway through, and after HAL training. RESULTS Gait velocity and step length for 10-meter walk test, and 2-min walk distance were significantly improved after HAL gait training. There was no significant change in serum level of all 3 measured enzymes between the three time points. CONCLUSIONS HAL gait training with the practical setting as this study improved gait ability in patients with progressive neuromuscular disease and did not damage skeletal muscle, as indicated by no significant change in serum level of muscle enzymes. CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT Robot assisted gait training could be safely applied to the patients with neuromuscular diseases, as one of the effective rehabilitation programs to improve gait ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masakazu Kogawa
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan -
| | - Kazutomo Miura
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Yasuda
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Yasuyuki Ishibashi
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Eiichi Tsuda
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
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16
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Exoskeletal-assisted walking may improve seated balance in persons with chronic spinal cord injury: a pilot study. Spinal Cord Ser Cases 2021; 7:20. [PMID: 33712561 DOI: 10.1038/s41394-021-00384-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Pre-post intervention. OBJECTIVE To explore the potential effect of exoskeletal-assisted walking (EAW) on seated balance for persons with chronic motor complete spinal cord injury (SCI). SETTING A SCI research center. METHODS Eight participants who were over 18 years of age with chronic SCI and used a wheelchair for mobility were enrolled. Seven able-bodied participants were used for normal seated balance comparative values. Participants with chronic SCI received supervised EAW training using a powered exoskeleton (ReWalkTM) for a median 30 sessions (range from 7 to 90 sessions). Before and after EAW training, seated balance testing outcomes were collected using computerized dynamic posturography, providing measurements of endpoint excursion (EPE), maximal excursion (MXE), and directional control (DCL). Modified functional reach test (MFRT) and the sub-scales of physical functioning and role limitations due to physical health from the Short Form (36) Health Survey (SF-36) were used to identify changes in functional activities. RESULTS After EAW training, seated balance significantly improved in total-direction EPE and MXE (P < 0.01 and P < 0.017 respectively). The results of MFRT and sub-scales of physical functioning and role limitations due to physical health improved after EAW training but were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS EAW training may have the potential to improve seated balance for persons with chronic motor complete SCI. Due to the limitations of the study, such as small sample size and lack of a control group, further studies are needed to clarify the effect of improving seated balance through EAW training.
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17
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Rodríguez-Fernández A, Lobo-Prat J, Font-Llagunes JM. Systematic review on wearable lower-limb exoskeletons for gait training in neuromuscular impairments. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2021; 18:22. [PMID: 33526065 PMCID: PMC7852187 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-021-00815-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Gait disorders can reduce the quality of life for people with neuromuscular impairments. Therefore, walking recovery is one of the main priorities for counteracting sedentary lifestyle, reducing secondary health conditions and restoring legged mobility. At present, wearable powered lower-limb exoskeletons are emerging as a revolutionary technology for robotic gait rehabilitation. This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview on wearable lower-limb exoskeletons for people with neuromuscular impairments, addressing the following three questions: (1) what is the current technological status of wearable lower-limb exoskeletons for gait rehabilitation?, (2) what is the methodology used in the clinical validations of wearable lower-limb exoskeletons?, and (3) what are the benefits and current evidence on clinical efficacy of wearable lower-limb exoskeletons? We analyzed 87 clinical studies focusing on both device technology (e.g., actuators, sensors, structure) and clinical aspects (e.g., training protocol, outcome measures, patient impairments), and make available the database with all the compiled information. The results of the literature survey reveal that wearable exoskeletons have potential for a number of applications including early rehabilitation, promoting physical exercise, and carrying out daily living activities both at home and the community. Likewise, wearable exoskeletons may improve mobility and independence in non-ambulatory people, and may reduce secondary health conditions related to sedentariness, with all the advantages that this entails. However, the use of this technology is still limited by heavy and bulky devices, which require supervision and the use of walking aids. In addition, evidence supporting their benefits is still limited to short-intervention trials with few participants and diversity among their clinical protocols. Wearable lower-limb exoskeletons for gait rehabilitation are still in their early stages of development and randomized control trials are needed to demonstrate their clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Rodríguez-Fernández
- Biomechanical Engineering Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Research Center for Biomedical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Diagonal 647, 08028, Barcelona, Spain. .,Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Santa Rosa 39-57, 08950, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.
| | - Joan Lobo-Prat
- Biomechanical Engineering Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Research Center for Biomedical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Diagonal 647, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Santa Rosa 39-57, 08950, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.,ABLE Human Motion, Diagonal 647, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Robòtica i Informàtica Industrial, CSIC-UPC, Llorens i Artigas 4-6, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Font-Llagunes
- Biomechanical Engineering Lab, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Research Center for Biomedical Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Diagonal 647, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Santa Rosa 39-57, 08950, Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain.,ABLE Human Motion, Diagonal 647, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
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18
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Plaza A, Hernandez M, Puyuelo G, Garces E, Garcia E. Wearable rehabilitation exoskeletons of the lower limb: analysis of versatility and adaptability. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020; 18:392-406. [PMID: 33332159 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1858976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyse the versatility and adaptability of commercially available exoskeletons for mobility assistance and their adaptation to diverse pathologies through a review of clinical trials in robotic lower limb training. DATA SOURCES A computer-aided search in bibliographic databases (PubMed and Web of Science) of clinical trials published up to September 2020 was done. METHODS To be selected for detailed review, clinical trials had to meet the following criteria: (1) a protocol was designed and approved, (2) participants were people with pathologies, and (3) the trials were not a single case study. Clinical trial data were collected, extracted, and analysed, considering: objectives, trial participants, number of sessions, pathologies involved, and conclusions. RESULTS The search resulted in 312 potentially relevant studies of seven commercial exoskeletons, of which 135 passed the preliminary screening; and 69 studies were finally selected. Of the 69 clinical trials included in the review about 50% involved Spinal Cord Injury participants, while roughly 25% focussed on stroke and two trials corresponded to patients with both disorders. The rest were composed of neurological diseases and trauma disorders. CONCLUSIONS The use of a single wearable robot for different medical conditions in various diseases is a challenge. Based on this comparative, the properties of the exoskeletons that improve the working ability with different pathologies and patient conditions have been evaluated. Suggestions were made for developing a new lower-limb exoskeleton based on various modules with a distributed control system to improve versatility in wearable technology for different gait pattern progression.Implications for rehabilitationWearable robotic exoskeletons for gait assistance have been analysed from the perspective of adaptation to different diseases.This paper emphasizes the importance of personalized therapies and adaptive assistive technology.Suggestions were made for a new modular exoskeleton capable of addressing the issue of low versatility characterizing currently wearable assistive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Plaza
- Marsi Bionics S.L, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Automática y Robótica, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Hernandez
- Centro de Automática y Robótica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC-UPM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo Puyuelo
- Marsi Bionics S.L, Madrid, Spain.,Escuela de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Elena Garcia
- Centro de Automática y Robótica, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC-UPM), Madrid, Spain
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Choi HJ, Kim GS, Chai JH, Ko CY. Effect of Gait Training Program with Mechanical Exoskeleton on Body Composition of Paraplegics. J Multidiscip Healthc 2020; 13:1879-1886. [PMID: 33299324 PMCID: PMC7721297 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s285682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To identify the effect of a 52-weeks gait training program with an exoskeletal body-powered gait orthosis on the body composition of paraplegics. Patients and Methods Ten subjects with spinal cord injury at the thoracolumbar spine level for more than 2 years participated and were divided into exercise (n=5) and nonexercise (n=5) groups. A gait training program comprising stages 1–6 with customized exoskeletal body-powered gait orthosis was conducted for 52-weeks. A six-stage gait training program was conducted to manage the body composition and prevent obesity, and the changes in the body composition before and after the program were determined through bioelectrical impedance analysis. Results No significant changes in weight, fat-free mass (kg), lean body mass (kg), and percent fat mass (%) are seen in the exercise group before and after the 52-weeks program. However, fat-free mass (pre = 47.3± 6.5, post = 44.3 ± 5.4, kg), lean body mass (pre = 45.2 ± 6.3, post = 42.3±5.2, kg), and percent fat mass (pre = 30.1 ± 12.1, post = 40.9 ± 9.1, kg) show significant changes (p < 0.05) in the nonexercise group. In the nonexercise group, among lean body mass changes over 52-weeks in the upper limbs (−31%), trunks (−9.7%), and lower limbs (−8.6%), upper limbs exhibit the most significant decrease (p < 0.05). Conclusion The gait training program with exoskeletal body-powered gait orthosis has a positive effect on fat management in the whole body and lean body mass loss in paraplegics. Furthermore, it is effective in preventing continuous muscle loss and in maintaining health by reducing body fat. Body composition measurements with bioelectrical impedance analysis for paraplegics can be applied in various clinical areas and can be combined with various arbitration methods such as rehabilitation program.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuk-Jae Choi
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy Training Research, Rehabilitation Engineering Research Institute, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Gyoo-Suk Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Therapy Training Research, Rehabilitation Engineering Research Institute, Incheon, Republic of Korea
| | - Jung Hoon Chai
- Department of Sports Medicine, Soonchunhyang University, Asan, Chungcheongnam-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Chang-Yong Ko
- Department of Research & Development, Refind Inc., Wonju, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
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Knezevic S, Asselin PK, Cirnigliaro CM, Kornfeld S, Emmons RR, Spungen AM. Oxygen Uptake During Exoskeletal-Assisted Walking in Persons With Paraplegia. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2020; 102:185-195. [PMID: 33181116 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2020.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the cardiometabolic demands associated with exoskeletal-assisted walking (EAW) in persons with paraplegia. This study will further examine if training in the device for 60 sessions modifies cost of transport (CT). DESIGN Prospective cohort study. Measurements over the course of a 60-session training program, approximately 20 sessions apart. SETTING James J. Peters Bronx Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury Research Center. PARTICIPANTS The participants' demographics (N=5) were 37-61 years old, body mass index (calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared) of 22.7-28.6, level of injury from T1-T11, and 2-14 years since injury. INTERVENTIONS Powered EAW. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Oxygen consumption per unit time (V˙O2, mL/min/kg), velocity (m/min), cost of transport (V˙O2/velocity), and rating of perceived exertion (RPE). RESULTS With training: EAW velocity significantly improved (Pre: 51±51m; 0.14±0.14m/s vs Post: 99±42m; 0.28±0.12m/s, P=.023), RPE significantly decreased (Pre: 13±6 vs Post: 7±4, P=.001), V˙O2 significantly improved (Pre: 9.76±1.23 mL/kg/m vs Post: 12.73±2.30 mL/kg/m, P=.04), and CT was reduced from the early to the later stages of training (3.66±5.2 vs 0.87±0.85 mL/kg/m). CONCLUSIONS The current study suggests that EAW training improves oxygen uptake efficiency and walking velocities, with a lower perception of exertion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Knezevic
- VA RR&D National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York; Department of Kinesiology, William Paterson University, Wayne, New Jersey.
| | - Pierre K Asselin
- VA RR&D National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Christopher M Cirnigliaro
- VA RR&D National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Stephen Kornfeld
- VA RR&D National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Spinal Cord Injury Service, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York
| | - Racine R Emmons
- Department of Kinesiology, William Paterson University, Wayne, New Jersey
| | - Ann M Spungen
- VA RR&D National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York; Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
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21
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Asselin P, Cirnigliaro CM, Kornfeld S, Knezevic S, Lackow R, Elliott M, Bauman WA, Spungen AM. Effect of Exoskeletal-Assisted Walking on Soft Tissue Body Composition in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2020; 102:196-202. [PMID: 33171129 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2020.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of overground walking using a powered exoskeleton on soft tissue body composition in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). DESIGN A prospective, single group observational pilot study. SETTING Medical center. PARTICIPANTS Persons (N=8) with chronic (>6mo) SCI between 18 and 65 years old who weighed less than 100 kg. INTERVENTIONS Overground ambulation training using a powered exoskeleton (ReWalk) for 40 sessions, with each session lasting up to 2 hours, with participants training 3 times per week. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to measure lean mass (LM) and fat mass (FM) from the whole body, arms, legs and trunk. DXA was also used to assess visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Walking performance was measured by 6-minute walk test. RESULTS Participants significantly lost total body FM (-1.8±1.2kg, P=.004) with the loss of adiposity distributed over several regional sites. Six of the 8 participants lost VAT, with the average loss in VAT trending toward significance (-0.141kg, P=.06). LM for the group was not significantly changed. CONCLUSIONS Sustained and weekly use of powered exoskeletons in persons with SCI has the potential to reduce FM with inferred improvements in health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Asselin
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY; Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY.
| | - Christopher M Cirnigliaro
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Stephen Kornfeld
- Spinal Cord Injury Service, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Steven Knezevic
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Rachel Lackow
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Michael Elliott
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - William A Bauman
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY; Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
| | - Ann M Spungen
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY; Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY; Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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Quiles V, Ferrero L, Ianez E, Ortiz M, Megia A, Comino N, Gil-Agudo AM, Azorin JM. Usability and acceptance of using a lower-limb exoskeleton controlled by a BMI in incomplete spinal cord injury patients: a case study. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2020; 2020:4737-4740. [PMID: 33019049 DOI: 10.1109/embc44109.2020.9175738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) limits life expectancy and causes a restriction of patient's daily activities. In the last years, robotics exoskeletons have appeared as a promising rehabilitation and assistance tool for patients with motor limitations, as people that have suffered a SCI. The usability and clinical relevance of these robotics systems could be further enhanced by brain-machine interfaces (BMIs), as they can be used to foster patients' neuroplasticity. However, there are not many studies showing the use of BMIs to control exoskeletons with patients. In this work we show a case study where one SCI patient has used a BMI based on motor imagery (MI) in order to control a lower limb exoskeleton that assists their gait.
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Cirnigliaro CM, Parrott JS, Myslinski MJ, Asselin P, Lombard AT, La Fountaine MF, Kirshblum SC, Forrest GF, Dyson-Hudson T, Spungen AM, Bauman WA. Relationships between T-scores at the hip and bone mineral density at the distal femur and proximal tibia in persons with spinal cord injury. J Spinal Cord Med 2020; 43:685-695. [PMID: 31663832 PMCID: PMC7534195 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2019.1669957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To identify T-score values at the total hip (TH) and femoral neck (FN) that correspond to the cutoff value of <0.60 g/cm2 for heightened risk of fracture at the distal femur (DF) and proximal tibia (PT).Design: Retrospective analysis of data in a research center's database. Setting: Community-based individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). Participants: 105 unique individuals with SCI. Outcome Measurements: DXA derived areal BMD (aBMD) and T-score of the DF, PT, TH, and FN. Results: The aBMD at the DF and PT regions were predictors of T-scores at the TH (R2 = 0.63, P < 0.001 and R2 = 0.65, P < 0.001) and FN (R2 = 0.55, P < 0.001 and R2 = 0.58, P < 0.001). Using the DF and PT aBMD of 0.60 g/cm2 as a value below which fractures were more likely to occur, the predicted T-score was -3.1 and -3.5 at the TH and -2.6 and -2.9 at the FN, respectively. However, when the predicted and observed T-score values disagree outside the 95% limit of agreement, the predicted T-score values are lower than the measured T-score values, overestimating the measured values between -2.0 and -4.0 SD. Conclusion: The DF and PT cutoff value for aBMD of 0.60 g/cm2 was a moderate predictor of T-score values at the TH and FN, with considerable inaccuracies outside the clinically acceptable limits of agreement. As such, the direct measurement of knee aBMD in persons with SCI should be performed, whenever possible, prior to prescribing weight bearing upright activities, such as robotic exoskeletal-assisted walking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M. Cirnigliaro
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA,Correspondence to: Christopher M. Cirnigliaro, Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, 130 West Kingsbridge Road, Bronx, NY10468, USA; Ph: (718) 584-9000, Ext. 5420. ;
| | - J. Scott Parrott
- Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, School of Health Professions, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Mary Jane Myslinski
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Pierre Asselin
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Alexander T. Lombard
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Michael F. La Fountaine
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA,Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, USA,The Institute for Advanced Study of Rehabilitation and Sports Science, School of Health and Medical Sciences, Seton Hall University, South Orange, New Jersey, USA
| | - Steven C. Kirshblum
- Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, West Orange, New Jersey, USA,Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey, USA,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Gail F. Forrest
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey, USA,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Trevor Dyson-Hudson
- Kessler Foundation, West Orange, New Jersey, USA,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Ann M. Spungen
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA,Departments of Medicine and Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - William A. Bauman
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA,Departments of Medicine and Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
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Spungen AM, Bauman WA, Biswas K, Jones KM, Snodgrass AJ, Goetz LL, Gorman PH, Kirshblum S, Sabharwal S, White KT, Asselin PK, Morin KG, Cirnigliaro CM, Huang GD. The design of a randomized control trial of exoskeletal-assisted walking in the home and community on quality of life in persons with chronic spinal cord injury. Contemp Clin Trials 2020; 96:106102. [PMID: 32800962 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2020.106102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
There are more than 300,000 estimated cases of spinal cord injury (SCI) in the United States, and approximately 27,000 of these are Veterans. Immobilization from SCI results in adverse secondary medical conditions and reduced quality of life. Veterans with SCI who have completed rehabilitation after injury and are unable to ambulate receive a wheelchair as standard of care. Powered exoskeletons are a technology that offers an alternative form of limited mobility by enabling over-ground walking through an external framework for support and computer-controlled motorized hip and knee joints. Few studies have reported the safety and efficacy for use of these devices in the home and community environments, and none evaluated their impact on patient-centered outcomes through a randomized clinical trial (RCT). Absence of reported RCTs for powered exoskeletons may be due to a range of challenges, including designing, statistically powering, and conducting such a trial within an appropriate experimental framework. An RCT for the study of exoskeletal-assisted walking in the home and community environments also requires the need to address key factors such as: avoiding selection bias, participant recruitment and retention, training, and safety concerns, particularly in the home environment. These points are described here in the context of a national, multisite Department of Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Program-sponsored trial. The rationale and methods for the study design were focused on providing a template for future studies that use powered exoskeletons or other strategies for walking and mobility in people with immobilization due to SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Spungen
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, United States of America; Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States of America; Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States of America.
| | - William A Bauman
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, United States of America; Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States of America; Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States of America.
| | - Kousick Biswas
- Cooperative Studies Program Coordinating Center, VA Maryland Health Care System, Perry Point, MD 21902, United States of America.
| | - Karen M Jones
- Cooperative Studies Program Coordinating Center, VA Maryland Health Care System, Perry Point, MD 21902, United States of America.
| | - Amanda J Snodgrass
- VA Cooperative Studies Program Clinical Research Pharmacy Coordinating Center, Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States of America; University of New Mexico, College of Pharmacy, Albuquerque, NM 87106, United States of America.
| | - Lance L Goetz
- Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, VA 23249, United States of America; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, United States of America.
| | - Peter H Gorman
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America; VA Maryland Healthcare System, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States of America.
| | - Steven Kirshblum
- Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation, West Orange, NJ 07052, United States of America; Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, United States of America; Kessler Foundation, West Orange, NJ 07052, United States of America.
| | - Sunil Sabharwal
- VA Boston Health Care System, Boston, MA 02130, United States of America; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America.
| | - Kevin T White
- James A Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL 33612, United States of America; University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, United States of America.
| | - Pierre K Asselin
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, United States of America; Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, United States of America.
| | - Kel G Morin
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, United States of America.
| | - Christopher M Cirnigliaro
- National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, United States of America.
| | - Grant D Huang
- Cooperative Studies Program Central Office, VA Office of Research and Development, Washington, DC 20420, United States of America.
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Bone Loss and the Current Diagnosis of Osteoporosis and Risk of Fragility Fracture in Persons with Spinal Cord Injury. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-020-00268-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Kwon SH, Lee BS, Lee HJ, Kim EJ, Lee JA, Yang SP, Kim TY, Pak HR, Kim HK, Kim HY, Jung JH, Oh SW. Energy Efficiency and Patient Satisfaction of Gait With Knee-Ankle-Foot Orthosis and Robot (ReWalk)-Assisted Gait in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury. Ann Rehabil Med 2020; 44:131-141. [PMID: 32392652 PMCID: PMC7214138 DOI: 10.5535/arm.2020.44.2.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the energy efficiency of gait with knee-ankle-foot orthosis (KAFO) and robot-assisted gait and to develop a usability questionnaire to evaluate the satisfaction of walking devices in paraplegic patients with spinal cord injuries. METHODS Thirteen patients with complete paraplegia participated and 10 completed the evaluation. They were trained to walk with KAFO (KAFO-gait) or a ReWalk robot (ReWalk-gait) for 4 weeks (20 sessions). After a 2-week wash-out period, they switched walking devices and underwent 4 additional weeks of training. Two evaluations were performed (after 2 and 4 weeks) following the training periods for each walking device, using the 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and 30-minute walking test (30MWT). The spatiotemporal variables (walking distance, velocity, and cadence) and energy expenditure (heart rate, maximal heart rate, the physiologic cost index, oxygen consumption, metabolic equivalents, and energy efficiency) were evaluated duringthe 6MWT and 30MWT. A usability evaluation questionnaire for walking devices was developed based on the International Organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission guidelines through expert consultation. RESULTS The ReWalk-gait presented significant advantages in energy efficiency compared to KAFO-gait in the 6MWT and 30MWT; however, there were no differences in walking distance or speed in the 30MWT between ReWalk-gait and KAFOgait. The usability test demonstrated that ReWalk-gait was not superior to KAFO-gait in terms of safety, efficacy, efficiency, or patient satisfaction. CONCLUSION The robot (ReWalk) enabled patients with paraplegia to walk with lower energy consumption compared to KAFO, but the ReWalk-gait was not superior to KAFO-gaitin terms of patient satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hyun Kwon
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bum Suk Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Jin Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Eun Joo Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jung Ah Lee
- Department of Clinical Research on Rehabilitation, National Rehabilitation Research Institute, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sung Phil Yang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae Young Kim
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Han Ram Pak
- Department of Clinical Research on Rehabilitation, National Rehabilitation Research Institute, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Ki Kim
- Department of Clinical Research on Rehabilitation, National Rehabilitation Research Institute, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hae Young Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Joo Hwan Jung
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Wook Oh
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Center, Seoul, Korea
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Heinemann AW, Kinnett-Hopkins D, Mummidisetty CK, Bond RA, Ehrlich-Jones L, Furbish C, Field-Fote E, Jayaraman A. Appraisals of robotic locomotor exoskeletons for gait: focus group insights from potential users with spinal cord injuries. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2020; 15:762-772. [PMID: 32255369 DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1745910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To describe appraisals of robotic exoskeletons for locomotion by potential users with spinal cord injuries, their perceptions of device benefits and limitations, and recommendations for manufacturers and therapists regarding device use.Materials and methods: We conducted focus groups at three regional rehabilitation hospitals and used thematic analysis to define themes.Results: Across four focus groups, 35 adults participated; they were predominantly middle-aged, male, and diverse in terms of race and ethnicity, well educated, and not working. Participants had been living with SCI an average of two decades. Most participants were aware of exoskeletons. Some were enthusiastic about the usability of the devices while others were more circumspect. They had many questions about device affordability and usability, and were discerning in their appraisal of benefits and suitability to their particular circumstances. They reflected on device cost, the need for caregiver assistance, use of hands, and environmental considerations. They weighed the functional benefits relative to the cost of preferred activities. Their recommendations focused on cost, battery life, and independent use.Conclusions: Potential users' appraisals of mobility technology reflect a nuanced appreciation of device costs; functional, social, and psychological benefits; and limitations. Results provide guidance to therapists and manufacturers regarding device use.Implications for RehabilitationPotential users of robotic locomotor exoskeletons with spinal cord injuries appreciate the functional, social, and psychological benefits that these devices may offer.Their appraisals reflect nuanced consideration of device cost and features, and the suitability of the assistive technology to their circumstances.They recommend that manufacturers focus on reducing cost, extending battery life, and features that allow independent use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allen W Heinemann
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Rachel A Bond
- Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Linda Ehrlich-Jones
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Catherine Furbish
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Program, Shepherd Center, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Edelle Field-Fote
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Program, Shepherd Center, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Division of Physical Therapy, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Arun Jayaraman
- Center for Rehabilitation Outcomes Research, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA
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Stampacchia G, Olivieri M, Rustici A, D'Avino C, Gerini A, Mazzoleni S. Gait rehabilitation in persons with spinal cord injury using innovative technologies: an observational study. Spinal Cord 2020; 58:988-997. [PMID: 32251368 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-0454-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Prospective, quasi-experimental study, pre- and post-design, single arm study. OBJECTIVES Investigate whether persons affected by SCI can safely experience walking function using Robotic Exoskeletons and Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES). SETTING Inpatient METHODS: 52 persons with SCI were recruited (36 completed the protocol) and assigned to one of two groups based on their Lower Limb Motor Scores (LEMS): Group A: LEMS ≥ 10 and Group B: LEMS < 10. Participants in Group A (n = 19) underwent 20 sessions of Robot-Assisted Gait Training (RAGT) on a treadmill followed by 20 sessions of FES during Overground Gait (FES-OG). Participants in Group B (n = 17) received 20 sessions of FES-cycling followed by 20 sessions of overground RAGT. The main outcome measures were: WISCI-II, 10MWT, 6MWT, TUG and SCIM-II. RESULTS 36 persons completed the study with no complications; only 4 of the 16 dropped out because of mild complications during the RAGT. Participants in Group A exhibited significant improvements in WISCI-II, 10MWT, 6MWT and TUG (p < 0.05), while those in Group B did not significantly improve their gait function but their walking velocity and resistance with the assistance of the robotic exoskeleton increased. SCIM-II scores increased followed therapy only in Group A. CONCLUSIONS Persons affected by SCI can safely experience their walking function with RAGT and FES therapy; only few mild complications were observed. Our data provides initial evidence of the potential value of these technologies, especially in persons with SCI having LEMS > 10.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carla D'Avino
- Spinal Cord Unit, Pisa University Hospital, Pisa, Italy
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29
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Chun A, Asselin PK, Knezevic S, Kornfeld S, Bauman WA, Korsten MA, Harel NY, Huang V, Spungen AM. Changes in bowel function following exoskeletal-assisted walking in persons with spinal cord injury: an observational pilot study. Spinal Cord 2020; 58:459-466. [PMID: 31822808 PMCID: PMC7145720 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-019-0392-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Prospective, observational study. OBJECTIVE To explore the effects of exoskeletal-assisted walking (EAW) on bowel function in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). SETTING Ambulatory research facility located in a tertiary care hospital. METHODS Individuals 18-65 years of age, with thoracic vertebrae one (T1) to T11 motor-complete paraplegia of at least 12 months duration were enrolled. Pre- and post-EAW training, participants were asked to report on various aspects of their bowel function as well as on their overall quality of life (QOL) as related to their bowel function. RESULTS Ten participants completed 25-63 sessions of EAW over a period of 12-14 weeks, one participant was lost to follow up due to early withdrawal after ten sessions. Due to the small sample size, each participant's results were presented descriptively in a case series format. At least 5/10 participants reported improvements with frequency of bowel evacuations, less time spent on bowel management per bowel day, fewer bowel accidents per month, reduced laxative and/or stool softener use, and improved overall satisfaction with their bowel program post-EAW training. Furthermore, 8/10 reported improved stool consistency and 7/10 reported improved bowel function related QOL. One participant reported worsening of bowel function post-EAW. CONCLUSION Between 50 and 80% of the participants studied reported improvements in bowel function and/or management post-EAW training. EAW training appeared to mitigate SCI-related bowel dysfunction and the potential benefits of EAW on bowel function after SCI is worthy or further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Chun
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Pierre K Asselin
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Steven Knezevic
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
| | - Stephen Kornfeld
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - William A Bauman
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Mark A Korsten
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Noam Y Harel
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
- Department of Neurology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Vincent Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA
| | - Ann M Spungen
- VA Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, 10468, USA.
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029, USA.
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The safety and feasibility of a new rehabilitation robotic exoskeleton for assisting individuals with lower extremity motor complete lesions following spinal cord injury (SCI): an observational study. Spinal Cord 2020; 58:787-794. [PMID: 32034295 DOI: 10.1038/s41393-020-0423-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN A pre-post observational study. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the safety and feasibility of a new rehabilitation robotic device for assisting individuals with lower extremity motor complete lesions following spinal cord injury (SCI). SETTING Three hospitals in Sichuan Province, China. METHODS Individuals aged 15-75 years with an SCI between vertebrae six (T6) and lumbar 1 (L1) and complete motor paralysis participated in an exoskeletal-assisted walking (EAW) programme (2 weeks, 5 days/week, 30 min/day). Data were collected pre-, mid- (week 1) and post-intervention (week 2). RESULTS Twenty-eight individuals (mean age = 41.3, 71% males) participated in the EAW programme. The distance walked during the 6-min walking test (6MWT) increased relative to that at baseline, during week 1 (13.0 ± 5.3 m) and week 2 (16.2 ± 5.3 m) when wearing the exoskeleton. The walking speed during the 10-m walking test (10MWT) increased from 0.039 ± 0.016 to 0.045 ± 0.016 m/s. The Hoffer walking ability grade, the Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM), and the Walking Index for SCI II (WISCI II) changed after 2 weeks of EAW. No improvement in lower extremity motor score (LEMS) was observed. The rates of adverse events and serious adverse events were 21% and 4%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The EAW programme with the new robotic exoskeleton provided potential meaningful improvements in mobility for individuals with SCI and had few adverse events.
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Tsai CY, Delgado AD, Weinrauch WJ, Manente N, Levy I, Escalon MX, Bryce TN, Spungen AM. Exoskeletal-Assisted Walking During Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation Leads to Motor and Functional Improvement in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury: A Pilot Study. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 101:607-612. [PMID: 31891715 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the potential effects of incorporating exoskeletal-assisted walking (EAW) into spinal cord injury (SCI) acute inpatient rehabilitation (AIR) on facilitating functional and motor recovery when compared with standard of care AIR. DESIGN A quasi-experimental design with a prospective intervention group (AIR with EAW) and a retrospective control group (AIR only). SETTING SCI AIR facility. PARTICIPANTS Ten acute inpatient participants with SCI who were eligible for locomotor training were recruited in the intervention group. Twenty inpatients with SCI were identified as matched controls by reviewing an AIR database, Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation, by an individual blinded to the study. Both groups (N=30) were matched based on etiology, paraplegia/tetraplegia, completeness of injury, age, and sex. INTERVENTION EAW incorporated into SCI AIR. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES FIM score, International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury Upper Extremity Motor Score and Lower Extremity Motor Scores (LEMS), and EAW session results, including adverse events, walking time, and steps. RESULTS Changes from admission to discharge LEMS and FIM scores were significantly greater in the intervention group (LEMS change: 14.3±10.1; FIM change: 37.8±10.8) compared with the control group (LEMS change: 4.6±6.1; FIM change: 26.5±14.3; Mann-Whitney U tests: LEMS, P<.01 and FIM, P<.05). One adverse event (minor skin abrasion) occurred during 42 walking sessions. Participants on average achieved 31.5 minutes of up time and 18.2 minutes of walk time with 456 steps in one EAW session. CONCLUSIONS Incorporation of EAW into standard of care AIR is possible. AIR with incorporated EAW has the potential to facilitate functional and motor recovery compared with AIR without EAW.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung-Ying Tsai
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Spinal Cord Damage Research Center, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York.
| | - Andrew D Delgado
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - William J Weinrauch
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Nicholas Manente
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Isaiah Levy
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Miguel X Escalon
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Thomas N Bryce
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Ann M Spungen
- Department of Rehabilitation and Human Performance, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Spinal Cord Damage Research Center, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, New York
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Systemic inflammation in traumatic spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2019; 325:113143. [PMID: 31843491 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Morse LR, Biering-Soerensen F, Carbone LD, Cervinka T, Cirnigliaro CM, Johnston TE, Liu N, Troy KL, Weaver FM, Shuhart C, Craven BC. Bone Mineral Density Testing in Spinal Cord Injury: 2019 ISCD Official Position. J Clin Densitom 2019; 22:554-566. [PMID: 31501005 DOI: 10.1016/j.jocd.2019.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes rapid osteoporosis that is most severe below the level of injury. More than half of those with motor complete SCI will experience an osteoporotic fracture at some point following their injury, with most fractures occurring at the distal femur and proximal tibia. These fractures have devastating consequences, including delayed union or nonunion, cellulitis, skin breakdown, lower extremity amputation, and premature death. Maintaining skeletal integrity and preventing fractures is imperative following SCI to fully benefit from future advances in paralysis cure research and robotic-exoskeletons, brain computer interfaces and other evolving technologies. Clinical care has been previously limited by the lack of consensus derived guidelines or standards regarding dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry-based diagnosis of osteoporosis, fracture risk prediction, or monitoring response to therapies. The International Society of Clinical Densitometry convened a task force to establish Official Positions for bone density assessment by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in individuals with SCI of traumatic or nontraumatic etiology. This task force conducted a series of systematic reviews to guide the development of evidence-based position statements that were reviewed by an expert panel at the 2019 Position Development Conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The resulting the International Society of Clinical Densitometry Official Positions are intended to inform clinical care and guide the diagnosis of osteoporosis as well as fracture risk management of osteoporosis following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie R Morse
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Fin Biering-Soerensen
- Clinic for Spinal Cord Injuries, Neuroscience Centre, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laura D Carbone
- Charlie Norwood Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Augusta, GA, USA; Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Tomas Cervinka
- Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health and Welfare, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Pori, Finland
| | - Christopher M Cirnigliaro
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Therese E Johnston
- Department of Physical Therapy, Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Nan Liu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine and Osteoporosis and Metabolic Bone Disease Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Karen L Troy
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Frances M Weaver
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH), Health Services Research & Development, Department of Veterans Affairs, Hines VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA; Department of Public Health Sciences, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Christopher Shuhart
- Swedish Bone Health and Osteoporosis Center, Swedish Medical Group, Seattle WA, USA
| | - Beverley C Craven
- Neural Engineering and Therapeutics Team, KITE Research Institute - University Health Network, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
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He Y, Eguren D, Azorín JM, Grossman RG, Luu TP, Contreras-Vidal JL. Brain-machine interfaces for controlling lower-limb powered robotic systems. J Neural Eng 2019; 15:021004. [PMID: 29345632 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/aaa8c0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Lower-limb, powered robotics systems such as exoskeletons and orthoses have emerged as novel robotic interventions to assist or rehabilitate people with walking disabilities. These devices are generally controlled by certain physical maneuvers, for example pressing buttons or shifting body weight. Although effective, these control schemes are not what humans naturally use. The usability and clinical relevance of these robotics systems could be further enhanced by brain-machine interfaces (BMIs). A number of preliminary studies have been published on this topic, but a systematic understanding of the experimental design, tasks, and performance of BMI-exoskeleton systems for restoration of gait is lacking. APPROACH To address this gap, we applied standard systematic review methodology for a literature search in PubMed and EMBASE databases and identified 11 studies involving BMI-robotics systems. The devices, user population, input and output of the BMIs and robot systems respectively, neural features, decoders, denoising techniques, and system performance were reviewed and compared. MAIN RESULTS Results showed BMIs classifying walk versus stand tasks are the most common. The results also indicate that electroencephalography (EEG) is the only recording method for humans. Performance was not clearly presented in most of the studies. Several challenges were summarized, including EEG denoising, safety, responsiveness and others. SIGNIFICANCE We conclude that lower-body powered exoskeletons with automated gait intention detection based on BMIs open new possibilities in the assistance and rehabilitation fields, although the current performance, clinical benefits and several key challenging issues indicate that additional research and development is required to deploy these systems in the clinic and at home. Moreover, rigorous EEG denoising techniques, suitable performance metrics, consistent trial reporting, and more clinical trials are needed to advance the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongtian He
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Noninvasive Brain-Machine Interface Systems Laboratory, University of Houston, Houston, TX 77204, United States of America
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Experience of Robotic Exoskeleton Use at Four Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems Centers. J Neurol Phys Ther 2019; 42:256-267. [PMID: 30199518 DOI: 10.1097/npt.0000000000000235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Refinement of robotic exoskeletons for overground walking is progressing rapidly. We describe clinicians' experiences, evaluations, and training strategies using robotic exoskeletons in spinal cord injury rehabilitation and wellness settings and describe clinicians' perceptions of exoskeleton benefits and risks and developments that would enhance utility. METHODS We convened focus groups at 4 spinal cord injury model system centers. A court reporter took verbatim notes and provided a transcript. Research staff used a thematic coding approach to summarize discussions. RESULTS Thirty clinicians participated in focus groups. They reported using exoskeletons primarily in outpatient and wellness settings; 1 center used exoskeletons during inpatient rehabilitation. A typical episode of outpatient exoskeleton therapy comprises 20 to 30 sessions and at least 2 staff members are involved in each session. Treatment focuses on standing, stepping, and gait training; therapists measure progress with standardized assessments. Beyond improved gait, participants attributed physiological, psychological, and social benefits to exoskeleton use. Potential risks included falls, skin irritation, and disappointed expectations. Participants identified enhancements that would be of value including greater durability and adjustability, lighter weight, 1-hand controls, ability to navigate stairs and uneven surfaces, and ability to balance without upper extremity support. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Each spinal cord injury model system center had shared and distinct practices in terms of how it integrates robotic exoskeletons into physical therapy services. There is currently little evidence to guide integration of exoskeletons into rehabilitation therapy services and a pressing need to generate evidence to guide practice and to inform patients' expectations as more devices enter the market.Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A231).
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Haufe FL, Kober AM, Schmidt K, Sancho-Puchades A, Duarte JE, Wolf P, Riener R. User-driven walking assistance: first experimental results using the MyoSuit. IEEE Int Conf Rehabil Robot 2019; 2019:944-949. [PMID: 31374751 DOI: 10.1109/icorr.2019.8779375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Wearable robots for the legs have been developed for gait rehabilitation training and as assistive devices. Most devices have been rigid exoskeletons designed to substitute the function of users who are completely paralyzed. While effective for this target group, exoskeletons limit their users' contributions to movements. Soft wearable robots have been suggested as an alternative that allows, and requires, active contributions from users with residual mobility.In this work, we first tested if the MyoSuit, a lightweight, lower-limb soft wearable robot, affected the walking kinematics of unimpaired users. Secondly, we evaluated the assistance delivered to a patient with a gait impairment.In our first study, 10 unimpaired participants walked on a treadmill at speeds between 0.5 and 1.3 m/s. We found that wearing the MyoSuit in its transparency mode did not affect the participants' walking kinematics (RMS difference of joint angles < 1.6°). Step length and the ratio of stance-to-stride duration were not affected when wearing the MyoSuit.In our case study with one spinal cord injured participant, the MyoSuit supported the participant to increase his 10 MWT walking speed from 0.36 to 0.52 m/s, a substantial clinically meaningful improvement.Our results show that the MyoSuit allows user-driven, kinematically unaltered walking and provides effective assistance. Systems like the MyoSuit are a promising technology to bridge the gap between rigid exoskeletons and unassisted ambulation.
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Manns PJ, Hurd C, Yang JF. Perspectives of people with spinal cord injury learning to walk using a powered exoskeleton. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2019; 16:94. [PMID: 31324256 PMCID: PMC6642539 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-019-0565-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Powered exoskeletons for over ground walking were designed to help people with neurological impairments to walk again. Extended training in powered exoskeletons has led to changes in walking and physiological functions. Few studies have considered the perspective of the participants. The users' perspective is vital for adoption of assistive devices. We explored the expectations and experiences of persons with spinal cord injury, training with the ReWalk exoskeleton. METHODS A qualitative research design with individual interviews was used. Eleven participants with spinal cord injury, taking part in 12 weeks of 4 times weekly training using the ReWalk, were interviewed before, immediately after, and 2 months after training. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. A six stage approach to thematic analysis was used. RESULTS The theme consistently expressed was the exoskeleton allowed participants to do everyday activities, like everyone else, such as looking people in the eye or walking outside. Their experiences were captured in three categories: 1) learning, a description of both expectations for learning and perspectives on how learning occurred; 2) changing, perspectives on perceived changes with training; and 3) contributing, which captured participant perspectives on contributing to research, including the giving of direct feedback regarding the exoskeleton (i.e., what worked and what could be changed). CONCLUSIONS Incorporating the view of the user in the design and refinement of exoskeletons will help ensure that the devices are appropriate for future users. Availability and support for the use of exoskeleton devices in community settings is an interim step to home use as the devices continue to improve. TRIAL REGISTRATION www.clinicaltrials.gov ( NCT02322125 ). Registered Dec 22, 2014 - Retrospectively registered after the first 4 participants had enrolled in the study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia J Manns
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, 3-48 Corbett Hall, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G4, Canada.
| | - Caitlin Hurd
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, 3-48 Corbett Hall, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G4, Canada
| | - Jaynie F Yang
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, 3-48 Corbett Hall, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G4, Canada
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Exoskeletons for Personal Use After Spinal Cord Injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 102:331-337. [PMID: 31228407 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2019.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 04/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Before the development of robotic exoskeletons, mobility options beyond a wheelchair were very limited for most people lacking leg movement due to spinal cord injury (SCI). Over the years, robotic exoskeletons have become more widely available and now have the potential to be successfully used for personal use at home and in the community. However, it is important that users set realistic expectations. The features and capabilities of each robotic exoskeleton differ, and how exoskeletons are used may vary greatly between individuals. Robotic exoskeletons can allow individuals with SCI with varying levels of injury to safely and functionally walk for personal mobility or exercise. The following special communication will discuss important considerations surrounding exoskeleton use including feasibility, safety, cost, speed, and potential health benefits of using an exoskeleton for everyday life for people with SCI.
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Yuan XN, Liang WD, Zhou FH, Li HT, Zhang LX, Zhang ZQ, Li JJ. Comparison of walking quality variables between incomplete spinal cord injury patients and healthy subjects by using a footscan plantar pressure system. Neural Regen Res 2019; 14:354-360. [PMID: 30531020 PMCID: PMC6301183 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.244798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The main goal of spinal cord rehabilitation is to restore walking ability and improve walking quality after spinal cord injury (SCI). The spatiotemporal parameters of walking and the parameters of plantar pressure can be obtained using a plantar pressure analysis system. Previous studies have reported step asymmetry in patients with bilateral SCI. However, the asymmetry of other parameters in patients with SCI has not been reported. This was a prospective, cross-sectional study, which included 23 patients with SCI, aged 48.1 ± 14.5 years, and 28 healthy subjects, aged 47.1 ± 9.8 years. All subjects underwent bare foot walking on a plantar pressure measurement device to measure walking speed and spatiotemporal parameters. Compared with healthy subjects, SCI patients had slower walking speed, longer stride time and stance time, larger stance phase percentage, and shorter stride length. The peak pressures under the metatarsal heads and toe were lower in SCI patients than in healthy subjects. In the heel, regional impulse and the contact area percentage in SCI patients were higher than those in healthy subjects. The symmetry indexes of stance time, step length, maximum force, impulse and contact area were increased in SCI patients, indicating a decline in symmetry. The results confirm that the gait quality, including spatiotemporal variables and plantar pressure parameters, and symmetry index were lower in SCI patients compared with healthy subjects. Plantar pressure parameters and symmetry index could be sensitive quantitative parameters to improve gait quality of SCI patients. The protocols were approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University (approval No. 2015PS54J) on August 13, 2015. This trial was registered in the ISRCTN Registry (ISRCTN42544587) on August 22, 2018. Protocol version 1.0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-Nan Yuan
- Rehabilitation Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Wei-Di Liang
- Rehabilitation Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Feng-Hua Zhou
- Rehabilitation Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Han-Ting Li
- Rehabilitation Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Li-Xin Zhang
- Rehabilitation Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Zhang
- Rehabilitation Department, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Jian-Jun Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, China
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McGibbon CA, Sexton A, Jayaraman A, Deems-Dluhy S, Gryfe P, Novak A, Dutta T, Fabara E, Adans-Dester C, Bonato P. Evaluation of the Keeogo exoskeleton for assisting ambulatory activities in people with multiple sclerosis: an open-label, randomized, cross-over trial. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2018; 15:117. [PMID: 30541585 PMCID: PMC6291941 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-018-0468-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although physical activity and exercise is known to benefit people with multiple sclerosis (MS), the ability of these individuals to participate in such interventions is difficult due to the mobility impairments caused by the disease. Keeogo is a lower-extremity powered exoskeleton that may be a potential solution for enabling people with MS to benefit from physical activity and exercise. Methods An open-label, randomized, cross-over trial was used to examine the immediate performance effects when using the device, and the potential benefits of using the device in a home setting for 2 weeks. Clinical performance tests with and without the device included the 6 min walk test, timed up and go test and the 10-step stair test (up and down). An activity monitor was also used to measure physical activity at home, and a patient-reported questionnaire was used to determine the amount and extent of home use. Generalized linear models were used to test for trial effects, and correlation analysis used to examine relationships between trial effects and usage. Results Twenty-nine patients with MS participated. All measures showed small decrements in performance while wearing the device compared to not wearing the device. However, significant improvements in unassisted (Rehab effect) performance were found after using the device at home for 2 weeks, compared to 2 weeks at home without the device, and participants improved their ability to use the device over the trial period (Training effect). Rehab and Training effects were related to the self-reported extent that participants used Keeogo at home. Conclusions Keeogo appears to deliver an exercise-mediated benefit to individuals with MS that improved their unassisted gait endurance and stair climbing ability. Keeogo might be a useful tool for delivering physical activity interventions to individuals with mobility impairment due to MS. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02904382. Registered 19 September 2016 - Retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris A McGibbon
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada. .,Faculty of Kinesiology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada.
| | - Andrew Sexton
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Arun Jayaraman
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab / Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Susan Deems-Dluhy
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab / Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Pearl Gryfe
- Assistive Technology Clinic, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Alison Novak
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Tilak Dutta
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eric Fabara
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Catherine Adans-Dester
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Paolo Bonato
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
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Husain SR, Ramanujam A, Momeni K, Forrest GF. Effects of Exoskeleton Training Intervention on Net Loading Force in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2018; 2018:2793-2796. [PMID: 30440981 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2018.8512768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to understand the rehabilitative effects of longitudinal overground exoskeleton training $( >100$ hours) on gait mechanics, especially foot loading, for gains in walking speed in an individual with chronic motorincomplete SCI. Biomechanical measures included: normalized plantar loading forces, walking speed and bilateral weight transfer ratio during walking in the EksoGT $^{\mathrm{ TM}}$ exoskeleton. Longitudinal training with a robotic exoskeleton yielded improvements in clinical outcomes (AIS classification, ISNCSCI motor scores and 10MWT) and provided functional gains in terms of biomechanical outcomes (plantar forces, weight transfer point) to increase overall walking speed.
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Ramanujam A, Cirnigliaro CM, Garbarini E, Asselin P, Pilkar R, Forrest GF. Neuromechanical adaptations during a robotic powered exoskeleton assisted walking session. J Spinal Cord Med 2018; 41:518-528. [PMID: 28427305 PMCID: PMC6117573 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2017.1314900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate gait parameters and neuromuscular profiles of exoskeleton-assisted walking under Max Assist condition during a single-session for; (i) able bodied (AB) individuals walking assisted with (EXO) and without (non-EXO) a powered exoskeleton, (ii) non-ambulatory SCI individuals walking assisted with a powered exoskeleton. DESIGN Single-session. SETTING Motion analysis laboratory. PARTICIPANTS Four AB individuals and four individuals with SCI. INTERVENTIONS Powered lower extremity exoskeleton. OUTCOME MEASURES Temporal-spatial parameters, kinematics, walking velocity and electromyography data. RESULTS AB individuals in exoskeleton showed greater stance time and a significant reduction in walking velocity (P < 0.05) compared to non-EXO walking. Interestingly, when the AB individuals voluntarily assisted the exoskeleton movements, they walked with an increased velocity and lowered stance time to resemble that of slow walking. For SCI individuals, mean percent stance time was higher and walking velocity was lower compared to all AB walking conditions (P < 0.05). There was muscle activation in several lower limb muscles for SCI group. For AB individuals, there were similarities among EXO and non-EXO walking conditions however there were differences in several lower limb EMGs for phasing of muscle activation. CONCLUSION The data suggests that our AB individuals experienced reduction in walking velocity and muscle activation amplitudes while walking in the exoskeleton and moreover with voluntary control there is a greater temporal-spatial response of the lower limbs. Also, there are neuromuscular phasic adaptions for both AB and SCI groups while walking in the exoskeleton that are inconsistent to non-EXO gait muscle activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Ramanujam
- Kessler Foundation, Human Performance and Engineering Research, West Orange, New Jersey, USA
| | - Christopher M. Cirnigliaro
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service, National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Erica Garbarini
- Kessler Foundation, Human Performance and Engineering Research, West Orange, New Jersey, USA
| | - Pierre Asselin
- Department of Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Research & Development Service, National Center for the Medical Consequences of Spinal Cord Injury, James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Rakesh Pilkar
- Kessler Foundation, Human Performance and Engineering Research, West Orange, New Jersey, USA,Rutgers – New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Gail F. Forrest
- Kessler Foundation, Human Performance and Engineering Research, West Orange, New Jersey, USA,Rutgers – New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey, USA,Correspondence to: Gail F. Forrest, Kessler Foundation, Human Performance and Engineering Research, 1199 Pleasant Valley Way, West Orange, NJ, USA.
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43
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Palermo AE, Maher JL, Baunsgaard CB, Nash MS. Clinician-Focused Overview of Bionic Exoskeleton Use After Spinal Cord Injury. Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil 2018; 23:234-244. [PMID: 29339899 DOI: 10.1310/sci2303-234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) resulting in paralysis of lower limbs and trunk restricts daily upright activity, work capacity, and ambulation ability, putting persons with an injury at greater risk of developing a myriad of secondary medical issues. Time spent in the upright posture has been shown to decrease the risk of these complications in SCI. Unfortunately, the majority of ambulation assistive technologies are limited by inefficiencies such as high energy demand, lengthy donning and doffing time, and poor gait pattern precluding widespread use. These limitations spurred the development of bionic exoskeletons. These devices are currently being used in rehabilitation settings for gait retraining, and some have been approved for home use. This overview will address the current state of available devices and their utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne E Palermo
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | - Jennifer L Maher
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
| | | | - Mark S Nash
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida.,Departments of Neurological Surgery and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Florida
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44
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Mekki M, Delgado AD, Fry A, Putrino D, Huang V. Robotic Rehabilitation and Spinal Cord Injury: a Narrative Review. Neurotherapeutics 2018; 15:604-617. [PMID: 29987763 PMCID: PMC6095795 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-018-0642-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mobility after spinal cord injury (SCI) is among the top goals of recovery and improvement in quality of life. Those with tetraplegia rank hand function as the most important area of recovery in their lives, and those with paraplegia, walking. Without hand function, emphasis in rehabilitation is placed on accessing one's environment through technology. However, there is still much reliance on caretakers for many activities of daily living. For those with paraplegia, if incomplete, orthoses exist to augment walking function, but they require a significant amount of baseline strength and significant energy expenditure to use. Options for those with motor complete paraplegia have traditionally been limited to the wheelchair. While wheelchairs provide a modified level of independence, wheelchair users continue to face difficulties in access and mobility. In the past decade, research in SCI rehabilitation has expanded to include external motorized or robotic devices that initiate or augment movement. These robotic devices are used with 2 goals: to enhance recovery through repetitive, functional movement and increased neural plasticity and to act as a mobility aid beyond orthoses and wheelchairs. In addition, lower extremity exoskeletons have been shown to provide benefits to the secondary medical conditions after SCI such as pain, spasticity, decreased bone density, and neurogenic bowel. In this review, we discuss advances in robot-guided rehabilitation after SCI for the upper and lower extremities, as well as potential adjuncts to robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa Mekki
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Andrew D Delgado
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Adam Fry
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Putrino
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vincent Huang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA.
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45
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Mazzoleni S, Battini E, Rustici A, Stampacchia G. An integrated gait rehabilitation training based on Functional Electrical Stimulation cycling and overground robotic exoskeleton in complete spinal cord injury patients: Preliminary results. IEEE Int Conf Rehabil Robot 2018; 2017:289-293. [PMID: 28813833 DOI: 10.1109/icorr.2017.8009261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of an integrated gait rehabilitation training based on Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)-cycling and overground robotic exoskeleton in a group of seven complete spinal cord injury patients on spasticity and patient-robot interaction. They underwent a robot-assisted rehabilitation training based on two phases: n=20 sessions of FES-cycling followed by n= 20 sessions of robot-assisted gait training based on an overground robotic exoskeleton. The following clinical outcome measures were used: Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) on spasticity, Penn Spasm Frequency Scale (PSFS), Spinal Cord Independence Measure Scale (SCIM), NRS on pain and International Spinal Cord Injury Pain Data Set (ISCI). Clinical outcome measures were assessed before (T0) after (T1) the FES-cycling training and after (T2) the powered overground gait training. The ability to walk when using exoskeleton was assessed by means of 10 Meter Walk Test (10MWT), 6 Minute Walk Test (6MWT), Timed Up and Go test (TUG), standing time, walking time and number of steps. Statistically significant changes were found on the MAS score, NRS-spasticity, 6MWT, TUG, standing time and number of steps. The preliminary results of this study show that an integrated gait rehabilitation training based on FES-cycling and overground robotic exoskeleton in complete SCI patients can provide a significant reduction of spasticity and improvements in terms of patient-robot interaction.
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46
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van Dijsseldonk RB, Rijken H, van Nes IJW, van de Meent H, Keijsers NLW. A Framework for Measuring the Progress in Exoskeleton Skills in People with Complete Spinal Cord Injury. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:699. [PMID: 29311780 PMCID: PMC5732998 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
For safe application of exoskeletons in people with spinal cord injury at home or in the community, it is required to have completed an exoskeleton training in which users learn to perform basic and advanced skills. So far, a framework to test exoskeleton skills is lacking. The aim of this study was to develop and test the hierarchy and reliability of a framework for measuring the progress in the ability to perform basic and advanced skills. Twelve participants with paraplegia were given twenty-four training sessions in 8 weeks with the Rewalk-exoskeleton. During the 2nd, 4th, and 6th training week the Intermediate-skills-test was performed consisting of 27 skills, measured in an hierarchical order of difficulty, until two skills were not achieved. When participants could walk independently, the Final-skills-test, consisting of 20 skills, was performed in the last training session. Each skill was performed at least two times with a maximum of three attempts. As a reliability measure the consistency was used, which was the number of skills performed the same in the first two attempts relative to the total number. Ten participants completed the training program. Their number of achieved intermediate skills was significantly different between the measurements XF2(2) = 12.36, p = 0.001. Post-hoc analysis revealed a significant increase in the median achieved intermediate skills from 4 [1–7] at the first to 10.5 [5–26] at the third Intermediate-skills-test. The rate of participants who achieved the intermediate skills decreased and the coefficient of reproducibility was 0.98. Eight participants met the criteria to perform the Final-skills-test. Their median number of successfully performed final skills was 16.5 [13–20] and 17 [14–19] skills in the first and second time. The overall consistency of >70% was achieved in the Intermediate-skills-test (73%) and the Final-skills-test (81%). Eight out of twelve participants experienced skin damage during the training, in four participants this resulted in missed training sessions. The framework proposed in this study measured the progress in performing basic and advanced exoskeleton skills during a training program. The hierarchical ordered skills-test could discriminate across participants' skill-level and the overall consistency was considered acceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hennie Rijken
- Department of Rehabilitation, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Ilse J W van Nes
- Department of Rehabilitation, Sint Maartenskliniek, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | | | - Noel L W Keijsers
- Department of Research, Sint Maartenskliniek Research, Nijmegen, Netherlands.,Department of Rehabilitation, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
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47
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Holanda LJ, Silva PMM, Amorim TC, Lacerda MO, Simão CR, Morya E. Robotic assisted gait as a tool for rehabilitation of individuals with spinal cord injury: a systematic review. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2017; 14:126. [PMID: 29202845 PMCID: PMC5715997 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-017-0338-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injury (SCI) is characterized by a total or partial deficit of sensory and motor pathways. Impairments of this injury compromise muscle recruitment and motor planning, thus reducing functional capacity. SCI patients commonly present psychological, intestinal, urinary, osteomioarticular, tegumentary, cardiorespiratory and neural alterations that aggravate in chronic phase. One of the neurorehabilitation goals is the restoration of these abilities by favoring improvement in the quality of life and functional independence. Current literature highlights several benefits of robotic gait therapies in SCI individuals. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to compare the robotic gait devices, and systematize the scientific evidences of these devices as a tool for rehabilitation of SCI individuals. METHODS A systematic review was carried out in which relevant articles were identified by searching the following databases: Cochrane Library, PubMed, PEDro and Capes Periodic. Two authors selected the articles which used a robotic device for rehabilitation of spinal cord injury. RESULTS Databases search found 2941 articles, 39 articles were included due to meet the inclusion criteria. The robotic devices presented distinct features, with increasing application in the last years. Studies have shown promising results regarding the reduction of pain perception and spasticity level; alteration of the proprioceptive capacity, sensitivity to temperature, vibration, pressure, reflex behavior, electrical activity at muscular and cortical level, classification of the injury level; increase in walking speed, step length and distance traveled; improvements in sitting posture, intestinal, cardiorespiratory, metabolic, tegmental and psychological functions. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review shows a significant progress encompassing robotic devices as an innovative and effective therapy for the rehabilitation of individuals with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ledycnarf J Holanda
- Neuroengineering Program, Edmond and Lily Safra International Neuroscience Institute, Santos Dumont Institute, Rodovia RN 160, Km 03, 3001 Distrito Jundiaí, Macaíba, 59280-000, Brazil.
| | - Patrícia M M Silva
- Neuroengineering Program, Edmond and Lily Safra International Neuroscience Institute, Santos Dumont Institute, Rodovia RN 160, Km 03, 3001 Distrito Jundiaí, Macaíba, 59280-000, Brazil
| | - Thiago C Amorim
- Neuroengineering Program, Edmond and Lily Safra International Neuroscience Institute, Santos Dumont Institute, Rodovia RN 160, Km 03, 3001 Distrito Jundiaí, Macaíba, 59280-000, Brazil
| | - Matheus O Lacerda
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Sen. Salgado Filho Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59078-970, Brazil
| | - Camila R Simão
- Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Av. Sen. Salgado Filho Lagoa Nova, Natal, 59078-970, Brazil.,Anita Garibaldi Center of Education and Research in Health, Santos Dumont Institute, Rodovia RN 160, Km 02, 2010 Distrito Jundiaí, Macaíba, 59280-970, Brazil
| | - Edgard Morya
- Neuroengineering Program, Edmond and Lily Safra International Neuroscience Institute, Santos Dumont Institute, Rodovia RN 160, Km 03, 3001 Distrito Jundiaí, Macaíba, 59280-000, Brazil.,Anita Garibaldi Center of Education and Research in Health, Santos Dumont Institute, Rodovia RN 160, Km 02, 2010 Distrito Jundiaí, Macaíba, 59280-970, Brazil
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48
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Tefertiller C, Hays K, Jones J, Jayaraman A, Hartigan C, Bushnik T, Forrest GF. Initial Outcomes from a Multicenter Study Utilizing the Indego Powered Exoskeleton in Spinal Cord Injury. Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil 2017; 24:78-85. [PMID: 29434463 DOI: 10.1310/sci17-00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective: To assess safety and mobility outcomes utilizing the Indego powered exoskeleton in indoor and outdoor walking conditions with individuals previously diagnosed with a spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods: We conducted a multicenter prospective observational cohort study in outpatient clinics associated with 5 rehabilitation hospitals. A convenience sample of nonambulatory individuals with SCI (N = 32) completed an 8-week training protocol consisting of walking training 3 times per week utilizing the Indego powered exoskeleton in indoor and outdoor conditions. Participants were also trained in donning/doffing the exoskeleton during each session. Safety measures such as adverse events (AEs) were monitored and reported. Time and independence with donning/doffing the exoskeleton as well as walking outcomes to include the 10-meter walk test (10MWT), 6-minute walk test (6MWT), Timed Up & Go test (TUG), and 600-meter walk test were evaluated from midpoint to final evaluations. Results: All 32 participants completed the training protocol with limited device-related AEs, which resulted in no interruption in training. The majority of participants in this trial were able to don and doff the Indego independently. Final walking speed ranged from 0.19 to 0.55 m/s. Final average indoor and outdoor walking speeds among all participants were 0.37 m/s (SD = 0.08, 0.09, respectively), after 8 weeks of training. Significant (p < .05) improvements were noted between midpoint and final gait speeds in both indoor and outdoor conditions. Average walking endurance also improved among participants after training. Conclusion: The Indego was shown to be safe for providing upright mobility to 32 individuals with SCIs who were nonambulatory. Improvements in speed and independence were noted with walking in indoor and outdoor conditions as well as with donning/doffing the exoskeleton.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kaitlin Hays
- Department of Physical Therapy, Craig Hospital, Englewood, Colorado
| | - Janell Jones
- Department of Physical Therapy, Craig Hospital, Englewood, Colorado
| | - Arun Jayaraman
- Max Nader Center for Rehabilitation Technologies & Outcomes Research, Departments of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Clare Hartigan
- Shepherd Center Virginia C. Crawford Research Institute, Shepherd Center, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Tamara Bushnik
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine Rusk Rehabilitation, NYU Langone Health, New York City, New York
| | - Gail F Forrest
- Human Performance and Movement Analysis Research at Kessler Foundation, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Rutgers - New Jersey Medical School, West Orange, New Jersey
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49
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Chang SR, Nandor MJ, Li L, Kobetic R, Foglyano KM, Schnellenberger JR, Audu ML, Pinault G, Quinn RD, Triolo RJ. A muscle-driven approach to restore stepping with an exoskeleton for individuals with paraplegia. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2017; 14:48. [PMID: 28558835 PMCID: PMC5450339 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-017-0258-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional neuromuscular stimulation, lower limb orthosis, powered lower limb exoskeleton, and hybrid neuroprosthesis (HNP) technologies can restore stepping in individuals with paraplegia due to spinal cord injury (SCI). However, a self-contained muscle-driven controllable exoskeleton approach based on an implanted neural stimulator to restore walking has not been previously demonstrated, which could potentially result in system use outside the laboratory and viable for long term use or clinical testing. In this work, we designed and evaluated an untethered muscle-driven controllable exoskeleton to restore stepping in three individuals with paralysis from SCI. METHODS The self-contained HNP combined neural stimulation to activate the paralyzed muscles and generate joint torques for limb movements with a controllable lower limb exoskeleton to stabilize and support the user. An onboard controller processed exoskeleton sensor signals, determined appropriate exoskeletal constraints and stimulation commands for a finite state machine (FSM), and transmitted data over Bluetooth to an off-board computer for real-time monitoring and data recording. The FSM coordinated stimulation and exoskeletal constraints to enable functions, selected with a wireless finger switch user interface, for standing up, standing, stepping, or sitting down. In the stepping function, the FSM used a sensor-based gait event detector to determine transitions between gait phases of double stance, early swing, late swing, and weight acceptance. RESULTS The HNP restored stepping in three individuals with motor complete paralysis due to SCI. The controller appropriately coordinated stimulation and exoskeletal constraints using the sensor-based FSM for subjects with different stimulation systems. The average range of motion at hip and knee joints during walking were 8.5°-20.8° and 14.0°-43.6°, respectively. Walking speeds varied from 0.03 to 0.06 m/s, and cadences from 10 to 20 steps/min. CONCLUSIONS A self-contained muscle-driven exoskeleton was a feasible intervention to restore stepping in individuals with paraplegia due to SCI. The untethered hybrid system was capable of adjusting to different individuals' needs to appropriately coordinate exoskeletal constraints with muscle activation using a sensor-driven FSM for stepping. Further improvements for out-of-the-laboratory use should include implantation of plantar flexor muscles to improve walking speed and power assist as needed at the hips and knees to maintain walking as muscles fatigue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah R Chang
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA. .,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.
| | - Mark J Nandor
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.,Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Lu Li
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Rudi Kobetic
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Kevin M Foglyano
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - John R Schnellenberger
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Musa L Audu
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Gilles Pinault
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Roger D Quinn
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.,Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Ronald J Triolo
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Blvd, 151AW/APT, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA.,Department of Orthopaedics, Case Western Reserve University, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
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50
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He Y, Eguren D, Luu TP, Contreras-Vidal JL. Risk management and regulations for lower limb medical exoskeletons: a review. MEDICAL DEVICES-EVIDENCE AND RESEARCH 2017; 10:89-107. [PMID: 28533700 PMCID: PMC5431736 DOI: 10.2147/mder.s107134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Gait disability is a major health care problem worldwide. Powered exoskeletons have recently emerged as devices that can enable users with gait disabilities to ambulate in an upright posture, and potentially bring other clinical benefits. In 2014, the US Food and Drug Administration approved marketing of the ReWalk™ Personal Exoskeleton as a class II medical device with special controls. Since then, Indego™ and Ekso™ have also received regulatory approval. With similar trends worldwide, this industry is likely to grow rapidly. On the other hand, the regulatory science of powered exoskeletons is still developing. The type and extent of probable risks of these devices are yet to be understood, and industry standards are yet to be developed. To address this gap, Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience, Clinicaltrials.gov, and PubMed databases were searched for reports of adverse events and inclusion and exclusion criteria involving the use of lower limb powered exoskeletons. Current inclusion and exclusion criteria, which can determine probable risks, were found to be diverse. Reported adverse events and identified risks of current devices are also wide-ranging. In light of these findings, current regulations, standards, and regulatory procedures for medical device applications in the USA, Europe, and Japan were also compared. There is a need to raise awareness of probable risks associated with the use of powered exoskeletons and to develop adequate countermeasures, standards, and regulations for these human-machine systems. With appropriate risk mitigation strategies, adequate standards, comprehensive reporting of adverse events, and regulatory oversight, powered exoskeletons may one day allow individuals with gait disabilities to safely and independently ambulate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongtian He
- Laboratory for Noninvasive, Brain-Machine Interface Systems, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David Eguren
- Laboratory for Noninvasive, Brain-Machine Interface Systems, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Trieu Phat Luu
- Laboratory for Noninvasive, Brain-Machine Interface Systems, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jose L Contreras-Vidal
- Laboratory for Noninvasive, Brain-Machine Interface Systems, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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