Article

Robotic technologies are becoming more prevalent for treating neurological
conditions in clinical settings. We conducted a literature search of original
articles to identify all studies that examined the use of robotic devices for
restoring walking function in adults with neurological disorders. We evaluated
and rated each study using either the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale for
randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or the Downs and Black scale for non-RCTs. We
reviewed 30 articles (14 RCTs, 16 non-RCTs) that examined the effects of
locomotor training with robotic assistance in patients following stroke, spinal
cord injury (SCI), multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and
Parkinson disease (PD). This review supports that locomotor training with robotic
assistance is beneficial for improving walking function in individuals following
a stroke and SCI. Gait speed and endurance were not found to be significantly
different among patients with motor incomplete SCI after a variety of locomotor
training approaches. Limited evidence demonstrates that locomotor training with
robotic assistance is beneficial in populations of patients with MS, TBI, or PD.
We discuss clinical implications and decision making in the area of gait
rehabilitation for neurological dysfunction.

Langue : ANGLAIS