Gait Re-training in Healthy Subjects Clinical Trial
Official title:
Pelvic Obliquity Rehabilitation in Stroke Patients Using Robotically Generated Force Fields
To test the usability and effectiveness of a robotic device, called the Robotic Gait Rehabilitation (RGR) Trainer, in (1) healthy subjects with no gait impairment and (2) patients with stroke with gait abnormalities secondary to impaired knee function.
The device is designed to train stroke patients to correct abnormal gait patterns associated
with exaggerated and uncoordinated movements of the pelvis by applying force fields to
correct the movement of the pelvis. The focus will be on correcting hip hiking (i.e.
exaggerated unilateral upward movements of one side of the pelvis) in post-stroke patients.
The human-robot interface will be based on impedance control techniques so that the
force-field actuators generate smooth virtual spring/damper restitution forces at the
patient's pelvic area.
As part of the study we will determine whether the force fields applied by the actuated
components of the device can effect an acute change in gait biomechanics, primarily pelvis
motion during stance and swing phases, in healthy subjects and patients with stroke during
ambulation. The investigators will also evaluate the usability of the orthosis in terms of
donning & doffing, user confidence, and comfort.
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