Gait Stability Training in a Virtual Environment Improves Gait and Dynamic Balance Capacity in Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Patients

Frontiers in Neurology, 2018 · DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00963 · Published: November 20, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Many individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries struggle with walking and balance, which impacts their daily lives. This study investigates whether virtual reality treadmill training can improve these issues. The study involved 15 patients who underwent 6 weeks of virtual reality treadmill training. Their walking speed, stride length, and balance confidence were measured before and after the training. The results showed that the training led to improvements in walking speed, stride length, and balance confidence. This suggests that virtual reality treadmill training can be a useful tool for improving gait and balance in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries.

Study Duration

6 weeks

Participants

15 patients with chronic iSCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Walking speed was significantly higher after GRAIL training compared to baseline measurements.
2
Significant improvements were found for stride length after the training.
3
Balance confidence was increased after GRAIL training.

Research Summary

This study assessed the effects of 6 weeks of GRAIL training on gait and dynamic balance capacities in chronic iSCI patients. Walking speed and stride length were increased after GRAIL training. At the 6 months follow-up measurement, improvements in walking speed, stride length, and the stability measure CoM-CoPAP−angle remained increased compared to baseline.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

Virtual reality treadmill training can be incorporated as a rehabilitation strategy for iSCI patients.

Improved Ambulation

The training can lead to improved ambulation and balance confidence in iSCI patients.

Personalized Training

GRAIL training can be personalized to address the individual goals of patients.

Study Limitations

1
The follow-up measurement was completed by only 10 patients
2
We did not control co-interventions during the period after the GRAIL training.
3
We do not know how the effect of GRAIL training has affected gait and dynamic balance capacities during overground walking.

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