Feasibility and tolerance of a robotic postural training to improve standing in a person with ambulatory spinal cord injury

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-021-00454-x · Published: September 19, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores using a robot-assisted training program (RobUST-intervention) to help improve standing balance in a person with a spinal cord injury. The program involves practicing standing and balance tasks with the robot providing support and controlled challenges to their posture. The study looked at whether the training was safe, if the person could tolerate it, and if it showed any signs of improving their balance control.

Study Duration

5 weeks

Participants

One ambulatory elder with SCI, AIS C, balance deficits

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
The participant showed improved balance in specific standing positions, particularly when vision was limited.
2
The participant was able to tolerate higher intensity balance challenges from the robot after the training program.
3
The participant showed improvements in cardiovascular responses, with a reduction in mean arterial pressure and heart rate during the training.

Research Summary

This case report investigates the feasibility and tolerance of RobUST-intervention, a robotic postural training, to improve standing in an ambulatory individual with spinal cord injury. The study found that the participant completed all scheduled sessions without falls or significant pain, demonstrating cardiovascular tolerance to the intervention. Results indicated potential efficacy in improving steady-state, proactive-active, and reactive postural standing control, suggesting the therapeutic value of trunk and pelvic force fields in SCI rehabilitation.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation potential

Robotic postural training may be a promising approach to improve balance and stability in ambulatory individuals with SCI.

Personalized Therapy

The RobUST system can be tailored to individual patient needs and tolerances, allowing for progressive and challenging rehabilitation programs.

Cardiovascular Benefits

The study suggests that robotic postural training may also have positive effects on cardiovascular health in people with SCI.

Study Limitations

1
Single-subject design limits generalizability.
2
EMG responses were highly variable, making it difficult to establish measurement stability.
3
Inclusion of participants with severe balance deficits is needed to address the full therapeutic potential of RobUST-intervention.

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