Clinical application of the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) for gait training—a systematic review

Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience, 2015 · DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2015.00048 · Published: March 26, 2015

Assistive Technology Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This review examines the use of the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) exoskeleton for gait training in individuals with walking difficulties due to neurological conditions. The HAL system is a robotic device that assists movement and can be controlled by the user's muscle activity or autonomous sensors. The review assesses the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of HAL in improving gait function and independence in walking.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

140 participants (118 completed interventions, 107 used HAL for gait training)

Evidence Level

Systematic Review

Key Findings

1
The HAL system is feasible for gait training in patients with lower extremity paresis within a professional setting.
2
Studies suggest that HAL training may improve gait function and independence in walking, although the evidence is not conclusive.
3
No serious adverse events were reported in the included studies, indicating that HAL training is relatively safe.

Research Summary

This systematic review evaluated the feasibility and effects of using the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) system for gait training in individuals with lower extremity paresis. The review included seven studies with a total of 140 participants, primarily individuals with stroke or spinal cord injury. The findings suggest that HAL training is feasible and may have beneficial effects on gait function and independence in walking, but further controlled studies are needed to confirm these effects.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

HAL can be considered as a potential tool for gait rehabilitation in patients with lower extremity paresis.

Research

Future research should focus on conducting well-designed, controlled studies to evaluate the effectiveness of HAL compared to conventional training methods.

Technology Development

Further development of exoskeletons should incorporate active participation from the user to promote motor learning and improve rehabilitation outcomes.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample sizes in the included studies.
2
Heterogeneity in study designs, patient populations, and intervention protocols.
3
Lack of long-term follow-up data to assess the sustainability of the observed effects.

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