A recent study conducted by the University of Massachusetts Amherst has unveiled a groundbreaking development in stroke recovery. The research introduces a portable robotic hip exoskeleton designed to improve walking function in stroke survivors. With over 80% of stroke patients experiencing walking difficulties, this innovation holds promise in significantly enhancing their daily lives and overall quality of life.
The study, published in IEEE Transactions on Neural Systems and Rehabilitation Engineering, highlights the potential of the robotic hip exoskeleton to effectively train individuals to modify their walking asymmetry, offering a new avenue for stroke rehabilitation. Drawing inspiration from split-belt treadmills, the robotic exoskeleton aims to address walking asymmetry commonly observed in stroke survivors.
Wouter Hoogkamer, assistant professor of kinesiology and one of the researchers involved, explained the concept behind the technology. He stated, ‘Split-belt treadmill training is designed to exaggerate a stroke patient’s walking asymmetry by running the belts under each foot at different speeds. Over time, the nervous system adapts, resulting in more symmetrical walking when the belts are set to the same speed.’
However, the study also acknowledges the limitations of treadmill-based training methods. Banu Abdikadirova, lead study author and doctoral candidate in mechanical and industrial engineering, emphasized the disparity between treadmill walking and walking in real-world settings. Abdikadirova stated, ‘Walking on a treadmill is not exactly the same as walking overground, and thus, the benefits gained from treadmill training may not entirely transfer to real-world contexts.’
Addressing this concern, Meghan Huber, assistant professor of mechanical and industrial engineering at UMass Amherst, emphasized the ultimate goal of gait rehabilitation. Huber stated, ‘The objective of gait rehabilitation extends beyond improving treadmill walking; it aims to enhance locomotor function in real-world scenarios.’
The introduction of the robotic hip exoskeleton offers a promising solution to bridge the gap between treadmill-based training and real-world walking. By providing a portable and accessible tool for modifying walking asymmetry, this innovative approach could revolutionize stroke rehabilitation methods, offering new possibilities for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for stroke survivors.
