Robotic Exoskeleton Gait Training for Children With Cerebral Palsy

Launched by HUNAN NORMAL UNIVERSITY · Jun 25, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying whether using a robotic exoskeleton—a wearable device that helps support and move the legs—can improve walking ability, joint movement, muscle health, and overall well-being in children with a type of cerebral palsy (CP) that affects movement and muscle control. The focus is on kids aged 6 to 12 who have more severe movement challenges and rely on wheelchairs or special walkers for daily activities. Researchers want to see if this robotic training can help these children move better and feel more satisfied with their progress compared to standard care.

Children who join the study will be randomly placed into one of two groups: one will receive robotic gait training three times a week for six months, while the other will continue with their usual care. Throughout the study, participants will have regular check-ups to measure their physical abilities, muscle condition, and psychological well-being. To join, children need to be medically stable, able to sit upright for at least 30 minutes, and understand simple instructions. Kids with recent surgeries, certain medical devices, or uncontrolled seizures won’t be eligible. This trial aims to offer new hope for improving quality of life in children with more severe CP through innovative technology.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • No history of heart disease or family history of heart disease;
• • Children classified as GMFCS level IV;
• • Dependent on assistive mobility devices, such as wheelchairs or posture support walkers, for activities of daily living;
• • Medically stable and able to sit upright for at least 30 minutes;
• • Able to understand simple verbal or visual instructions.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Aged under 6 years or over 12 years;
• • Received botulinum toxin A injections for lower limb muscles within six months prior to baseline assessment;
• • Implanted with an intrathecal baclofen pump, or has a history of lower limb-related orthopedic or neurosurgical interventions (such as tendon lengthening, osteotomy, or selective dorsal rhizotomy);
• • Has uncontrolled epilepsy, severe cognitive impairment, or other comorbidities.