Hip Exoskeleton Improves Mobility for Stroke Patients

Scientists are creating a robotic exoskeleton platform to address the constraints of treadmills utilized in the rehabilitation of stroke survivors experiencing walking difficulties.

Over 80% of individuals who have suffered a stroke may experience impaired function in one leg, impacting their typical walking pattern and elevating the risk of falls. This limitation may restrict their participation in various activities, potentially leading to a more sedentary lifestyle and related health complications.

Advancements in Robotic Exoskeletons for Gait Rehabilitation

Teaching a patient’s body to rectify an uneven walking pattern is a crucial aspect of rehabilitation, and we have witnessed various robotic exoskeletons employed alongside treadmills in recent years. However, there is scope for enhancement.

“The primary objective of gait rehabilitation isn’t merely to enhance treadmill walking; it’s to enhance overall locomotor function in real-world situations,” explained Meghan Huber, senior author of a study conducted at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. “With this objective in mind, our emphasis is on devising gait rehabilitation techniques that result in tangible enhancements in real-life scenarios.“

Motivated by the achievements of split-belt treadmills, the team has created a hip exoskeleton system that replicates the movements of belts positioned alongside each other, operating at varying speeds to accentuate gait asymmetry and improve motor learning.

However, the compact exoskeleton in question is a customized creation originating from the Human Robot Systems Laboratory at Amherst. Worn around the waist and fastened to the thighs, it features an actuator at each hip joint, generating torque to aid limb movement. The Raspberry Pi 4 supervises the system’s operations.

Replicating Split-Belt Treadmill Functionality with Exoskeleton Programming

The researchers programmed the proof of concept to replicate the functionality of a split-belt treadmill, applying resistive forces at one hip while providing assistive forces at the other to modify gait symmetry. They tested this setup on slightly over a dozen healthy volunteers and found that the device induced adaptations in spatiotemporal and kinetic gait measures similar to those observed in split-belt treadmill training.

During this study, the team handled power and processing off-device, but they are currently working on creating a portable setup that is suitable for real-world scenarios, with potential future clinical uses in mind.

To conclude, “a portable exoskeleton offers various clinical advantages,” explained Banu Abdikadirova, lead author of the study. “Such a device can seamlessly integrate into the daily routines of chronic stroke survivors, providing a convenient means to increase training duration, which is crucial for enhancing walking ability. Additionally, it can be utilized during early intervention in hospitals to promote better functional outcomes.”

Read the original article on: New Atlas

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