Robotic gait-assisted therapy in patients with neurological injury.

Abstract

Robotic gait training in the treatment of mobility deficits resulting from cerebral vascular injury is gaining popularity in U.S. hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. Advantages of robotic training include patient safety, early mobility training, increased training time per session and reduced physical burden to the therapist. Disadvantages include limited variance of movement and reduced interaction between patient and therapist. Although research has demonstrated positive effects of these devices on mobility improvements, future research with larger patient populations is warranted.