Exoskeleton in the neurorehabilitation process: Neuropsychological effects in patients affected by spinal cord injury and stroke

摘要

Background and Objectives: In neurorehabilitation, exoskeleton plays a key role among the numerous innovative and advanced frontiers in technology. The exoskeleton is intended for rehabilitation and mobility in patients with neurological motor diseases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of robotic training in body perception and mood. Methods: Two patients, one affected by stroke and another affected by spinal cord injury admitted to our rehabilitation unit, have been studied. We used two exoskeletons (Ekso and Indego). Training occurred 3 days a week for a total of forty sessions, with a duration of 50-60 min each session. Psychological tests focused on depression (Beck Depression Inventory), self-perception (body uneasiness test A), and the workload (NASA-Task Load Index) were used. Results: After the treatment, we found a great improvement in mood disorders and body perception in the patients. Conclusions: Patients with neurological motor diseases can increase motor and psychological skills using an active powered exoskeleton.