Exoskeleton Walk Training in Paralyzed Individuals Beneﬁts From Transcutaneous Lumbar Cord Tonic Electrical Stimulation

Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2020 · DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00416 · Published: May 25, 2020

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Neurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores the combined effect of spinal cord electrical stimulation (SCES) and exoskeleton walk training (EWT) on individuals with spinal cord injuries. Participants with both complete and incomplete spinal cord injuries were enrolled in a 2-week intensive rehabilitation program. The study found that SCES, especially when combined with EWT, can improve foot loading, reduce asymmetry in gait, and enhance neurological function in paralyzed individuals.

Study Duration

2 weeks

Participants

35 adults with traumatic chronic SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
EWT with SCES significantly increased foot loading forces and could decrease their asymmetry.
2
The anti-spastic mode of stimulation allowed individuals with severe spasticity to walk with the aid of the exoskeleton.
3
Neurological examination showed an increase of tactile and/or pain sensation and an increase of the AIS motor scale in some individuals.

Research Summary

The study evaluated the combined use of exoskeleton walk training (EWT) and spinal cord electrical stimulation (SCES) in individuals with spinal cord injuries. Results indicated that SCES can facilitate training and walking in the exoskeleton by activating locomotor networks and enhancing compensatory sensitivity. The findings suggest that combined EWT and SCES can lead to neurological improvements and enhanced locomotor ability in individuals with chronic SCI.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation strategy

Combining EWT and SCES could be a more effective rehabilitation approach for individuals with SCI compared to EWT alone.

Personalized stimulation

Different frequencies of SCES may have different effects, suggesting the need for personalized stimulation protocols based on individual needs.

Improved quality of life

The ability to walk, even with assistance, can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Exoskeleton Walk Training in Paralyzed Individuals Beneﬁts From Transcutaneous Lumbar Cord Tonic Electrical Stimulation

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation strategy

Personalized stimulation

Improved quality of life

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Exoskeleton Walk Training in Paralyzed Individuals Beneﬁts From Transcutaneous Lumbar Cord Tonic Electrical Stimulation

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation strategy

Personalized stimulation

Improved quality of life

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?