Robotic locomotor training for spasticity, pain, and quality of life in individuals with chronic SCI: A pilot randomized controlled trial

Front. Rehabil. Sci., 2023 · DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2023.1003360 · Published: January 30, 2023

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study examines how robotic and conventional exercise therapies affect pain, muscle stiffness, and quality of life in people with spinal cord injuries. Participants engaged in either walking in a robotic exoskeleton or a combination of resistance, cardiovascular, and flexibility exercises for 24 weeks. The results showed that while both exercise methods didn't reduce muscle stiffness and increased pain, they did improve the participants' perceived quality of life.

Study Duration

24-weeks

Participants

16 participants with chronic motor incomplete tetraplegia

Evidence Level

Randomized controlled trial

Key Findings

1
Neither robotic locomotor training (RLT) nor activity-based training (ABT) significantly altered symptoms of spasticity in individuals with chronic SCI.
2
Pain intensity increased in both the RLT and ABT groups from pre to post intervention.
3
Both RLT and ABT groups showed increased perceptions of quality of life over the 24-week intervention period.

Research Summary

This study investigated the effects of Robotic Locomotor Training (RLT) and Activity-Based Training (ABT) on spasticity, pain, and quality of life (QoL) in individuals with chronic Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). The results indicated that while neither intervention reduced spasticity and both led to increased pain ratings, participants in both groups experienced improved perceptions of QoL over the 24-week study period. The study concludes that the improved perceptions of QoL highlight the potential effectiveness of exercise interventions to support the well-being of people with SCI, warranting further investigation despite the small sample size.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategies

Exercise interventions, despite potentially increasing pain, can still improve the perceived quality of life for individuals with SCI.

Further Research

There is a need for larger-scale randomized controlled trials to further investigate the dichotomous relationship between pain, spasticity, and quality of life.

Clinical Practice

Clinicians should consider the potential psychological benefits of standing and activity, which may outweigh the effects of increased pain on quality of life.

Study Limitations

1
Analgesic/non-steroidal anti-inflammatory use was not documented.
2
This study did not have a true experimental control in which no exercise was performed.
3
Small sample size

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