Robotic-Assisted Gait Training in Educational Settings for Children with Locomotor Impairments
This study, conducted by two PTs at our Manhattan campus, primarily sought to determine the practicality of robotic exoskeleton usage in school-based PT sessions for students with moderate to severe TBIs and resulting mobility impairments. Secondarily, we looked for evidence of improvements in functional mobility, engagement in school activities, and ease of use of the exoskeleton among students and staff. Six students participated in 60-minute sessions using the ExoAtlet Bambini robotic exoskeleton twice a week for four weeks. Sessions included warm-ups, sitting, sit-to-stand activities, and gait training followed by a cool down. Students’ functional mobility, strength, range of motion, balance, and spasticity were assessed. Based on analysis of gait parameters recorded by the exoskeleton itself as well as clinical session notes collected by PTs and standard PT assessments, initial findings indicate that the use of a robotic-assisted exoskeleton is feasible in a school setting with this population. Further, pre/post comparisons and examination of trends in the data collected indicate that students’ performance did improve across the focal indicators. Our findings have implications for professional development and PT program advancement for implementing exoskeleton-assisted therapy for students with TBIs in schools.
Preliminary data from a subset of participants indicate progressive increases in comfort and engagement with the exoskeleton, reflected by increased standing duration, ambulation distance, and step count over time. Moreover, improvements were observed in both the 6MWT and 10MWT, with the latter demonstrating enhanced step efficiency. These initial findings support the integration of robotic gait training into physical therapy sessions as a viable strategy to enhance functional mobility in children with brain injury and brain-based disorders.
Ongoing to increase participant number.
We are always looking for collaborations & partnerships, as well as more team members to advance the research.
Research Assistant - Paraprofessional
(Manhattan, NY)
$40-50k/yr
Research Assistant - Paraprofessional
(Brooklyn, NY)
$40-50k/yr
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At the iBRAIN Institute, we are dedicated to turning the best of modern science into meaningful progress for individuals living with brain injuries and brain-based disorders. We invite you to explore our work and join us in creating a brighter future for those we serve.
