Article

Gait impairment, balance problems and falls have a negative impact on
independence in ADL and quality of life of patients affected by Hereditary
Spastic Paraplegia (HSP). Since no pharmacological options are available,
treatments rely mostly on rehabilitation therapy, although almost no data on this
topic exist. Given the demonstrated effectiveness of robotics in improving gait
and balance in various neurological diseases, aim of this study is to test the
effectiveness of a robotic-aided program of gait training on balance, walking
ability and quality of life in adult subjects affected by uncomplicated HSP.
METHODS: Thirteen patients affected by uncomplicated HSP were subjected to a
six-week robotic-aided gait training protocol. Participants underwent a battery
of 3 walking test, 1 balance test and 2 quality of life questionnaires. RESULTS:
At the end of the treatment a significant improvement of balance, walking ability
and quality of life was observed in almost all the tests. The improvements were
maintained over a two-month follow-up period. CONCLUSIONS: Our study indicates
that a robotic gait training is long term effective in improving balance and
walking ability with a positive impact on quality of life in patients affected by
uncomplicated form of HSP. As currently there is no specific treatment to prevent
or reverse HSP progression, our contribution would be significant for the
development of exercise recommendations in this rare disease.

Langue : ANGLAIS