Persistent Effect of Gait Exercise Assist Robot Training on Gait Ability and Lower Limb Function of Patients With Subacute Stroke: A Matched Case–Control Study With Three-Dimensional Gait Analysis

This study investigates whether a gait exercise robot (GEAR) can help stroke patients improve their walking ability and if these improvements last over time. The researchers compared patients who used the GEAR with a control group that received standard therapy. They looked at clinical assessments and 3D gait analysis to measure walking ability. The results suggest that GEAR training leads to significant and lasting improvements in walking ability and gait patterns in patients with subacute stroke, more so than standard therapy alone.

• 1
  Patients in the GEAR group showed significant improvement in FIM-walk score and SIAS-L/E score at discharge compared to post-training, indicating improved motor skills and functional gait.
• 2
  The GEAR group exhibited improved cadence and single stance time on the affected side at discharge, suggesting greater stability and confidence in weight shifting.
• 3
  The GEAR group demonstrated a significant reduction in knee extensor thrust and insufficient knee flexion at discharge, indicating better control of knee movements.