Article

The purpose was to compare the effectiveness of robotic-assisted body
weight supported treadmill training using the Lokomat((R)) to over-ground gait
training (OGT) in adults with chronic stroke. METHODS: Participants were randomly
assigned to the Lokomat((R))
or OGT interventions. Both protocols included 40
sessions over 8 weeks. Primary outcome measures were the 10-meter walk test and
6-minute walk distance. Secondary measures included the Functional Independence
Measure(TM) locomotion score, Fugl-Meyer Lower Extremity Motor Score (FM-LE),
Barthel Index, and Stroke Impact Scale. Blinded assessors tested the participants
at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up. RESULTS: Eleven
Lokomat((R)) and nine OGT participants completed the study. Within group
differences in the FM-LE score and Barthel Index occurred over time from baseline
to post-intervention and baseline to 3-month follow-up. No other within group
differences and no between group differences were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Although
walking measures did not show significant changes between groups, LE motor
function and physical functional levels improved over time within both groups.
The Lokomat((R)) may allow aggressive locomotor training, particularly for the
lower functioning patients who wish to improve walking ability due to apparent
eased therapist physical burden, when compared to OGT, although an increased risk
of skin breakdown is present.

Langue : ANGLAIS