Exoskeleton‑assisted walking improves pulmonary function and walking parameters among individuals with spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled pilot study

J NeuroEngineering Rehabil, 2021 · DOI: 10.1186/s12984-021-00880-w · Published: May 19, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores whether exoskeleton-assisted walking (EAW) improves pulmonary function (PF) and walking ability in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) compared to conventional training. The study found that EAW led to significant improvements in certain lung function parameters, suggesting it could be a beneficial addition to SCI rehabilitation. Participants in the EAW group were able to walk while wearing the exoskeleton, indicating its potential to assist with mobility.

Study Duration

4 weeks

Participants

18 SCI participants

Evidence Level

Level II, Randomized controlled pilot study

Key Findings

1
EAW significantly improved FVC, predicted FVC%, and FEV1 compared to conventional training in SCI individuals.
2
Participants in the EAW group were able to complete the 6-minute walk test while wearing the exoskeleton.
3
There were no adverse events related to EAW treatment, indicating its safety for SCI patients.

Research Summary

This study investigated the impact of exoskeleton-assisted walking (EAW) on pulmonary function (PF) and walking parameters in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) compared to conventional training. The results indicated that EAW led to significant improvements in FVC, predicted FVC%, and FEV1 compared to conventional training, suggesting potential benefits for respiratory function in SCI patients. The study concludes that EAW has the potential to improve PF and assist with walking in SCI individuals, warranting further research with larger sample sizes.

Practical Implications

Improved Pulmonary Function

EAW may enhance respiratory muscle strength and pulmonary ventilation, potentially reducing systemic inflammation associated with lower FEV1 and FVC.

Enhanced Walking Ability

Robotic exoskeletons can assist individuals with SCI to stand and walk, improving walking capacity without necessarily improving motor function.

Rehabilitation Strategy

EAW could be integrated into rehabilitation programs for SCI patients to improve both pulmonary function and mobility.

Exoskeleton‑assisted walking improves pulmonary function and walking parameters among individuals with spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled pilot study

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Pulmonary Function

Enhanced Walking Ability

Rehabilitation Strategy

Study Limitations

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Was this summary helpful?

Exoskeleton‑assisted walking improves pulmonary function and walking parameters among individuals with spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled pilot study

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Improved Pulmonary Function

Enhanced Walking Ability

Rehabilitation Strategy

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?