RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Clinical Impacts of Structured Robotic Gait Training Programs

This study investigates how effective and practical a special robotic walking training program can be for people, especially children, who have difficulty walking because of conditions like cerebral palsy or a brain injury. Many people face challenges with walking, and current treatments often don't fully address the underlying issues. While robotic walkers have shown promise, they can be expensive and hard to access. This research will figure out if using a robotic walking device, like the Trexo, in a hospital setting for a set period is something people can stick with. More importantly, it will check if this type of training helps patients, their families, and therapists achieve important walking goals.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Calgary

Enrolment target

120

Start

01 Nov 2022

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2026

Neuromotor Impairments Walking Impairment

What is this study about?

Many children and adults experience difficulties with walking due to conditions that affect their brains and nervous system, such as cerebral palsy or after a brain injury. This can make everyday life challenging and has significant long-term impacts. While there are some treatments available, we are still looking for better ways to improve balance and walking ability.

Robotic devices designed to help with walking have shown some good results in the past. However, these special robotic walkers can be costly, hard to find, and sometimes difficult to use at home. This often means that many people who could benefit from this technology don't get the chance to use it.

This study aims to understand two main things: First, how practical it is to offer a structured program using a robotic walking device in a hospital setting. This means checking if people can complete the training over a set time. Second, the study wants to see if this robotic training actually helps patients achieve their personal walking goals, as well as the goals their families and therapists have set for them. Researchers will set goals with participants at the beginning and then see how much progress has been made after the training program.

Key takeaways

This study explores robotic walking training for people with walking difficulties.
It aims to see if hospital-based robotic training is practical and effective.
Participants will set goals and see if the training helps them reach these goals.
Anyone of any age who fits the device and can follow the training can be considered.
The study focuses on improving walking ability, not curing conditions.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you would need to fit comfortably into the robotic walking device. This means your height would generally be under about 5 feet 6 inches and your weight under 150 pounds. You also need to be able to complete all the training sessions and follow the study's instructions.

People of any age can join, as long as they meet the size and physical requirements. It's important that you don't have certain medical conditions or recent surgeries that would prevent you from using the robotic trainer safely, such as an unstable hip problem or a recent bone fracture.

You also can't have a medical condition that stops you from being physically active, like an irregular heartbeat, or if standing causes pain or dizziness. If you have very stiff joints that would stop the robot from helping you move, you wouldn't be able to join. The researchers will also check if you are taking part in any other treatments that might make it difficult to tell what is helping you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Do I have trouble walking due to a brain or nervous system condition?
Am I generally under 5 feet 6 inches tall and under 150 pounds?
Am I able to attend regular training sessions?
Do I have any medical issues that prevent me from exercising or using a walking device?
Am I currently in another treatment that might affect study results?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you would receive training with a robotic walking device in a hospital setting for a set period. Before your training starts, you would work with the study team to set specific walking goals. During the study, you'd need to attend regular training sessions and assessments. The study team will monitor your progress and check how well you're able to stick with the training program. After completing the training, your initial goals will be reviewed to see if the robotic training helped you achieve them. The total length of time you'd be involved in the study would depend on the designed training program.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of joining this study is the chance to receive specialised robotic walking training that might improve your walking ability and help you achieve personal goals. This could lead to a better quality of life and increased independence. As with any physical activity or medical device, there are some potential risks, such as fatigue or discomfort during training. The researchers will carefully screen participants to minimise these risks. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Alberta Children's Hospital
Verified postcode
Calgary, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is a 'robotic gait trainer'?

It's a special machine that helps people practise walking, guided by a robot, usually with support like a walker.

Who is this study for?

It's for people of all ages who have difficulty walking due to conditions affecting their brain or nervous system, like cerebral palsy, and who fit the device.

Will this training cure my condition?

No, this study is looking at improving walking ability and reaching specific goals, not curing underlying conditions.

Where does the training happen?

The training sessions will take place in a hospital setting.

Do I have to pay to participate?

Clinical trials generally do not charge participants. Any costs will be explained by the study team.

How to find out more

Christa Diot

poni.lab@ucalgary.ca 403-955-5528 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.