Article

Effective locomotion training with robotic exoskeletons requires identification
of optimal control algorithms to better facilitate motor learning. Two commonly
employed training protocols emphasize use of training stimuli that either augment
or reduce performance errors. The current study sought to identify which of these
training strategies promote better short-term modification of a typical gait
pattern in healthy individuals as a framework for future application to neurologically impaired individuals. Ten subjects were assigned to each of a
performance-based error-augmentation or error-reduction training group. All
subjects completed a 45-min session of treadmill walking at their preferred speed
with a robotic exoskeleton. Target templates prescribed an ankle path for
training that corresponded to an increased step height. When subjects'
instantaneous ankle positions fell below the inferior virtual wall of the target
ankle path, robotic forces were applied that either decreased (error-reduction)
or increased (error-augmentation) the deviation from the target path. When the
force field was turned on, both groups walked with ankle paths better
approximating the target template compared to baseline. When the force field was
removed unexpectedly during catch and post-training trials, only the
error-augmentation group maintained an ankle path close to the target ankle path.
Further investigation is required to determine if a similar training advantage is
provided for neurologically impaired individuals.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Langue : ANGLAIS