Gait Training in Spinal Cord Injury, Regarding Two Robotic Devices: Lokomat® and EKSO GT®
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25759/spmfr.273Keywords:
Gait, Spinal Cord Injuries/rehabilitation, RoboticsAbstract
One of the main goals of rehabilitation following spinal cord injury is gait training. This approach may be associated with the reconfiguration of the spinal and interneuron reflexes, enhancing the neuroplasticity that leads to the recovery of gait capacity. The afferent input related to load and hip-joint position are crucial in generating a gait pattern and consequently in gait training. The recent introduction of robotic devices for the recovery of walking function in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury, improves the consistency of training and increase the intensity of therapy in a safe environment. Functional outcome is assessed by appropriate spinal cord injury scales and tests. The use of robotic devices implies a vast knowledge of the indications, benefits, limitations and safety measures required for each device and each patient. There are several types of robotic systems currently available for use in gait rehabilitation. However, the authors intend to describe the main advantages and limitations of two robotic systems, Lokomat® and EKSO GT®, as well as to perform a brief review of the neurophysiology and evaluation of prognostic factors of walking recovery after spinal cord injury.
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