The Effects of Powered Exoskeleton Gait Training on Cardiovascular Function and Gait Performance: A Systematic Review

Sensors, 2021 · DOI: 10.3390/s21093207 · Published: May 5, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Cardiovascular Science Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Patients with neurological impairments often experience physical deconditioning, resulting in reduced ﬁtness and health. Powered exoskeleton training may be a successful method to combat physical deconditioning and its comorbidities, providing patients with a valuable and novel experience. This systematic review aimed to conduct a search of relevant literature, to examine the effects of powered exoskeleton training on cardiovascular function and gait performance.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

236 participants

Evidence Level

Systematic Review

Key Findings

1
Results indicated that exoskeleton gait training elevated energy expenditure greater than wheelchair propulsion and improved gait function.
2
Patients exercised at a moderate-intensity.
3
Powered exoskeletons may increase energy expenditure to a similar level as non-exoskeleton walking, which may improve cardiovascular function more effectively than wheelchair propulsion alone.

Research Summary

The included studies indicated that powered exoskeleton assisted training may increase oxygen con-sumption to a similar level to non-exoskeleton walking and elevate HR to a greater level than non-exoskeleton waking. The metabolic equivelant and the physiological cost index of exoskeleton assisted walking were shown to be three to four times greater than non-exoskeleton walking and wheelchair propulsion. Therefore, powered exoskeleton gait training may be an effective way to improve cardiovascular function and walking ability within spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis and stroke patients.

Practical Implications

Improved Cardiovascular Function

Exoskeleton training can elevate oxygen consumption and heart rate, leading to improved cardiovascular fitness.

Enhanced Gait Performance

Exoskeletons can improve walking speed, distance, and overall gait function for individuals with neurological impairments.

Better Quality of Life

By enhancing physical abilities and reducing secondary health conditions, exoskeletons can contribute to a higher quality of life.

Study Limitations

1
Study limitations include the sample sizes of some of the selected studies.
2
Research in this area is sparse
3
It may be suggested that funding is another major restriction for therapists as a powered exoskeleton device is expensive therapeutic tool.

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