Effect of the Exoskeleton for Assisting Ambulatory Activities in People With Subacute Stroke

Launched by TAIPEI HOSPITAL, MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND WELFARE · Apr 20, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the use of an exoskeleton, a type of robotic device, to help people with walking after a stroke. The goal is to see if using this device at home can improve walking ability and overall mobility in individuals who have had a stroke, especially those who are struggling after traditional rehabilitation methods. Participants will be divided into two groups: one group will start with traditional therapy, while the other will begin with the exoskeleton. Over the course of two months, researchers will measure how well participants can walk and climb stairs with and without the device.

To be eligible for the trial, participants should be adults who have had their first stroke within the last two years and can walk independently, even if they use a cane. They should also be able to complete a walking test and a stair test on their own. Throughout the study, participants will be expected to use the exoskeleton at home and will be regularly tested to see how their mobility improves. This trial offers a chance for those with continued walking difficulties after stroke to explore a new way to enhance their movement and independence.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Patients diagnosed with first-time stroke, with onset time within 1 month to 2 years from the time of recruitment, and all participants must sign an informed consent form.
• • 2. Patients must have independent walking ability, with or without cane.
• • 3. Lower limb muscle tone Modified Ashworth Scale \<3.
• • 4. Able to perform a 25-meter walking test and a 10-step stair test without assistance from others.
• • 5. Cognitive function Mini-Mental State Examination \> 23 points.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Combined with other central nervous system problems, such as brain tumors or spinal cord injuries.
• • 2. Clearly, lower limb joint diseases that cannot achieve complete hip, knee, and ankle joint activity are not excluded, but mild joint activity limitations caused by stroke are not excluded.
• • 3. Skin diseases that are not suitable for contact with exoskeleton devices.
• • 4. Unable to cooperate with the two-month research plan.