Improvement of motor performance in children with cerebral palsy treated with exoskeleton robotic training: A retrospective explorative analysis.

Abstract

Background Robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) is widely used in children with cerebral palsy (CP), but information about optimal intervention frequency and duration is still lacking and the current evidence about effect of RAGT on motor endurance and fitness is very preliminary. Objective To investigate the effect of RAGT on motor performance and endurance in children affected by CP. Methods Data from 14 consecutive children (6 females, age range: 4.6-15.8 years) affected by CP, who underwent a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program during a 18-24 month period, were retrospectively collected. Rehabilitation program included conventional physical therapy and RAGT (60/60 minutes, 20 daily sessions, 5 days/week). CP severity was stratified according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System. Clinical evaluation was performed by means of the six-minute walking test, the modified Ashworth scale, and RAGT measures (total distance, mean distance for session and speed). Results Clinical outcomes and speed did not improve after treatment, while total distance (p = 0.006) and mean distance for session (p = 0.007) significantly improved. Conclusions Our preliminary study suggests that RAGT combined with conventional treatment may improve motor performance and endurance in children with CP. Future randomized controlled trials comparing RAGT to conventional treatment are needed.