Feasibility of Neurorehabilitation Using a Hybrid Assistive Limb for Patients Who Underwent Spine Surgery

Applied Bionics and Biomechanics, 2018 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/7435746 · Published: July 10, 2018

Assistive Technology Surgery Neurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The study investigates the use of the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) in early rehabilitation after spine surgery. HAL is a robotic exoskeleton that supports movement by detecting bioelectrical signals. The study aimed to evaluate its safety and effectiveness in improving walking ability. Nine patients with various spine disorders participated in the study. They underwent HAL treatment in addition to conventional physical therapy. The study measured walking speed, gait abnormalities, independence in daily living, and walking ability before and after HAL treatment. The results showed significant improvements in walking speed, gait, and independence in daily living after HAL treatment. The study suggests that HAL is a feasible and safe option for neurorehabilitation after spine surgery, potentially facilitating faster recovery.

Study Duration

October 2011 to February 2016

Participants

Nine patients with various spine problems

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Walking speed improved significantly after HAL treatment. The speed during the 10MWT significantly improved from 64.1 ± 16.0 to 74.8 ± 10.8 m/min (P = 0 031).
2
Gait abnormalities decreased after HAL treatment. The total GARS-M score improved from 6.0 ± 5.7 to 2.3 ± 3.3 (P = 0 005).
3
Independence in daily living improved after HAL treatment. The BI score also improved from 83.3 ±16.0 to 95.6 ±5.8 (P = 0 043).

Research Summary

This retrospective study evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL) therapy in patients who underwent spine surgery. Nine patients with various spine disorders were included and received HAL treatment in addition to conventional physical therapy. The study found significant improvements in walking speed, gait, and independence in daily living after HAL treatment. These improvements were measured using the 10-m walking test (10MWT), the modified Gait Abnormality Rating Scale (GARS-M), Barthel Index (BI), and the walking index for spinal cord injury II (WISCI II). The authors concluded that neurorehabilitation therapy using HAL is feasible and safe for spinal surgery patients and may facilitate functional recovery. Further studies with larger patient cohorts and control groups are recommended to confirm these findings.

Practical Implications

Post-operative Rehabilitation

HAL can be used as an early intervention tool to enhance the recovery process after spine surgery.

Improved Gait and Mobility

HAL therapy can lead to significant improvements in walking speed, gait quality, and overall mobility for patients with spinal disorders.

Enhanced Independence

Patients may experience increased independence in daily living activities due to improvements in motor function and mobility with HAL therapy.

Feasibility of Neurorehabilitation Using a Hybrid Assistive Limb for Patients Who Underwent Spine Surgery

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Post-operative Rehabilitation

Improved Gait and Mobility

Enhanced Independence

Study Limitations

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Feasibility of Neurorehabilitation Using a Hybrid Assistive Limb for Patients Who Underwent Spine Surgery

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Post-operative Rehabilitation

Improved Gait and Mobility

Enhanced Independence

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?