Implications of Assist-As-Needed Robotic Step Training after a Complete Spinal Cord Injury on Intrinsic Strategies of Motor Learning

This study investigates how different robotic training methods affect motor learning in mice with spinal cord injuries. The researchers compared a fixed robotic training approach to two 'assist-as-needed' (AAN) methods, one with interlimb coordination and one without. Mice trained with the AAN method that incorporated interlimb coordination showed the most improvement in stepping ability. This suggests that allowing variability and promoting natural coordination during training can enhance recovery after spinal cord injury. The findings suggest that robotic training which allows the spinal cord to explore solutions is more effective than a fixed pattern. This could have implications for developing better rehabilitation strategies for people with neuromotor impairments.

• 1
  Mice trained with the AAN window paradigm showed the highest level of recovery, as measured by the number, consistency, and periodicity of steps during the testing sessions.
• 2
  There were no significant differences between the Band and the Fixed training groups in all three measurements.
• 3
  The window training approach, which includes loose alternating interlimb coordination, is more effective than a fixed trajectory paradigm.