The Feasibility and Therapeutic Effect of Hybrid End-effector Robot-assisted Gait Training With an Active-assisted Module in Chronic Stroke Survivors

Overview

Walking rehabilitation after stroke is most effective during the first three months of recovery, but even in the chronic phase-beyond six months post-stroke-a significant number of patients still show potential for gait improvement. Robot-assisted rehabilitation is becoming increasingly common in clinical settings, with various design modes available. However, the effectiveness of new products in improving gait or motor function still requires further investigation. This study aims to evaluate the usability and therapeutic effects of a new end-effector exoskeleton robot system, HIWIN MRG-P110, for gait training in chronic stroke patients. The system uses foot pedal mechanisms to drive hip and knee movements for lower-limb training. Unlike its predecessor, this device allows adjustment of the active assistance ratio, encouraging users to engage in voluntary movement. It is designed for gait training in stroke patients and others with neurological impairments, but the usability and efficacy of this new training model remain to be verified. This clinical trial is a randomized, single-blind, prospective study enrolling 60 stroke patients who are 6 months to 3 years post-onset and have a Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) level of 0 to 3. The study will explore how patients with varying degrees of motor weakness learn to adapt to the "active-assistive mode" in terms of speed and perception. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the active-assistive mode group or the fully passive mode group. Both groups will receive 15 treatment sessions over 5 weeks. The study will compare the two groups in terms of: 1. Improvements in gait and balance immediately post-treatment and at 3-month follow-up 2. Changes in brain activity, as measured by functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS)