Affiliations: [a] Faculty of Technology, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Pori, Finland | [b] Unit of Neurology, Satakunta Hospital District, Pori, Finland | [c] Social Security Center of Pori, Pori, Finland | [d] Neurology, Clinical Neurosciences, University of Turku, Turku, Finland | [e] Clinical Pharmacy Group, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland | [f] Faculty of Health and Welfare, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Pori, Finland
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Taina Jyräkoski, Faculty of Technology, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Satakunnankatu 23, FI-28130 Pori, Finland. Tel.: +358 44 710 3228; E-mail: taina.jyrakoski@samk.fi.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Over-ground robotic lower limb exoskeletons are safe and feasible in rehabilitation with individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) and stroke. Information about effects on stroke rehabilitees is scarce and descriptions of learning process and user experience is lacking. OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study were to describe how rehabilitees learn exoskeleton use, to study effects of exoskeleton assisted walking (EAW) training, and to study rehabilitees’ user experiences. METHODS: One-group pre-test post-test pre-experimental study involved five rehabilitees with stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Participants in chronic phase underwent twice a week an 8-week training intervention with Indego exoskeleton. Process of learning to walk and the level of assistance were documented. Outcome measurements were conducted with 6-minute and 10-meter walk tests (6 MWT, 10 mWT). User experience was assessed with a satisfaction questionnaire. RESULTS: Rehabilitees learnt to walk using the exoskeleton with the assistance from 2–3 therapists within two sessions and progressed individually. Three participants improved their results in 10 mWT, four in 6 MWT. The rehabilitees felt comfortable and safe when using and exercising with the device. CONCLUSION: Indego exoskeleton may be beneficial to gait rehabilitation with chronic stroke or TBI rehabilitees. The rehabilitees were satisfied with the exoskeleton as a rehabilitation device.
