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Journal of Case Reports
Robotic Technology Enabled Gait Training Methods: A Boon for Gait Rehabilitation in Incomplete Tetraplegia
Thangavelu Senthilvelkumar, Joy Christy, Radhakrishnan Yuvaraj, Prashanth H Chalageri, Raji Thomas
Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
Corresponding Author:
Dr Thangavelu Senthilvelkumar
Email: senthil@cmcvellore.ac.in
Received: 13-AUG-2024 Accepted: 09-NOV-2024 Published Online: 25-JAN-2025
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17659/01.2025.0003
Abstract
Background: Incomplete cervical spinal cord injuries (SCI) often result in significant gait impairments, necessitating advanced rehabilitation methods to restore mobility. Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) and gait adaptability training are emerging as effective interventions for improving functional outcomes in individuals with such injuries. Case Report: We report the case of a 65-year-old man with a traumatic C6 incomplete cervical SCI who exhibited severe functional limitations, including the inability to stand or walk. Conventional physiotherapy for four weeks enabled him to stand with bilateral leg braces and walk with maximal support, although progress was hindered by fear of falling, poor hand grip, and weak trunk control. To accelerate rehabilitation, the patient underwent ten sessions of Lokomat Pro RAGT and ten sessions of C-Mill VR+ training over four weeks. The intervention yielded significant improvements: his Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury (WISCI II) scale score progressed from 0 at admission to 6 with RAGT introduction and reached 20 by the end of the training period. Additionally, his Berg Balance Scale score increased to 46, reflecting improved balance and mobility. Conclusion: Robotic-assisted gait training has proven to be a valuable addition to conventional rehabilitation methods for individuals with incomplete tetraplegia. In this case, the integration of Lokomat Pro and C-Mill VR+ facilitated rapid functional recovery, underscoring the potential of robotic technologies to enhance gait rehabilitation outcomes in this population.
Keywords : Gait, Injuries, Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation, Robotics, Spinal Cord.
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