The Effect of Robot-Assisted Gait Training(Walkbot_K) on Locomotor Function and Functional Capability for Daily Activities in Children

Abstract: Purpose: The effectiveness of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT, Walkbot_K) in children with cerebral palsy (CP), especially in terms of improving the performance of daily activities, remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of RAGT(Walkbot_K) in children with CP.

Methods: In this single-center, single-blinded, randomized cross-over trial, we enrolled 20 children with CP with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels II–IV (13 males; age range, 6.75 ± 2.15 years). The participants were randomized into the RAGT(Walkbot_K)/standard care (SC) (n = 10) and SC/RAGT(Walkbot_K)/SC
sequence groups (n = 10). Using a Walkbot-K system, the RAGT(Walkbot_K) program comprised 3 × 30-min sessions/week for 6 weeks with a continued SC program. The SC program comprised 2–4 conventional physiotherapy sessions/week for 6 weeks. The Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88), the pediatric functional independence measure (WeeFIM), and the Canadian occupational performance measure (COPM) scores were assessed pre- and post-RAGT or SC periods and treatment, period, follow-up, and carry-over effects were analyzed. Energy expenditure and body composition were measured pre- and post-RAGT.

Results: Significant treatment effects were observed in dimensions D and E of the GMFM (D: p = 0.018; E: p = 0.021) scores, WeeFIM mobility subtotal (p = 0.007), and COPM performance (p < 0.001) and satisfaction (p = 0.001) measure scores. The period, follow-up, and carry-over effects were not statistically significant. The gross energy cost significantly decreased (p = 0.041) and the skeletal muscle mass increased (p = 0.014) at post-RAGT assessment. The factors
associated with functional outcomes showed significant improvements in the GMFM D scores and were mainly observed in children with GMFCS levels II–III compared to those classified at level IV (p = 0.038).

Conclusion: RAGT(Walkbot_K) had training benefits for children with CP(Cerebral palsy). Specifically, it improved locomotor function and functional capability for daily activities. These effects were better in ambulatory children with CP(Cerebral palsy). However, as SC(Standard care) interventions continued during the RAGT(Walkbot_K) period, these improvements may be also related to multiple treatment effects.

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#WALKBOT #robot assisted gait training #robot assisted gait rehabilitation #gait training #rehabilitation #robotic rehabilitation #neuroplasticity #advanced rehabilitation #Lower-Limb Robotic Rehabilitation #Robotic Rehabilitation for the Lower Extremity