The Outcomes of Robotic Rehabilitation Assisted Devices Following Spinal Cord Injury and the Prevention of Secondary Associated Complications

Medicina, 2022 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58101447 · Published: October 13, 2022

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) lead to muscle paralysis, affecting a patient's independence and resulting in motor and sensory deficits like spasticity and pain. This review evaluates how robotic-assisted rehabilitation impacts SCI patients, focusing on regaining mobility, improving fitness, and addressing cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, bone density, and psychosocial issues. Combining robotic therapy with complex recovery treatments and specific medication is considered optimal for increasing neuro-motor recovery and enhancing patient autonomy and social integration.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Multiple clinical trials and pilot studies

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Robotic devices, combined with virtual reality, increase patient motivation and improve walking and balance via neuroplasticity.
2
For upper limb rehabilitation, robot-assisted training demonstrates superior outcomes in patients with incomplete injuries and preserved function.
3
Studies show that the use of exoskeletons has significant benefits in the recovery of motor function in disabled patients.

Research Summary

Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) allows SCI patients to perform effective, prolonged locomotor training without specific side effects, increasing mobility, improving walking, and reducing spasticity. Positive effects are also obtained on the complications associated with SCI at the cardiorespiratory, digestive, bone, and mental levels, causing an increase in the quality of life. Robotic therapy, with complex recovery treatment and specific medication, increases the chances of neuro-motor recovery, allowing patients more autonomy and better social integration.

Practical Implications

Improved Motor Function

Robotic therapy can significantly improve motor skills, especially walking and balance, in SCI patients.

Enhanced Quality of Life

By addressing complications like respiratory and cardiovascular issues, robotic rehabilitation can lead to a higher quality of life.

Increased Independence

Exoskeletons can provide greater autonomy for patients, fostering better social integration and psychological well-being.

Study Limitations

1
Few studies on cardiorespiratory response and metabolic consumption after training with robotic devices in patients with SCI.
2
Lack of standardized tests to evaluate the psychosocial impact in patients with SCI following robot-assisted training.
3
Limited long-term studies assessing the sustainability of benefits from robotic rehabilitation.

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