Testing a Portable Ankle Robot to Improve Walking and Reduce Foot Drop After Stroke in Adults

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of a portable ankle robot AMBLE used in physical therapy to reduce foot drop and improve walking in stroke survivors with hemiparesis. The study focuses on people who are in the subacute phase 6 weeks to 6 months or chronic phase more than 6 months after stroke and experience difficulty lifting the foot during walking. This study compares robot-assisted physical therapy with conventional physical therapy to see which better improves walking biomechanics and clinical assessments of foot drop. Participants receive 18 one-hour physical therapy sessions over 9 weeks. One group uses the AMBLE robot during therapy to assist foot lifting as needed while performing walking tasks, with training progressing through three phases based on individual ability. The other group receives standard physical therapy without the robot. Those initially in the physical therapy only group may choose to crossover to receive robot-assisted therapy. The study includes both subacute and chronic stroke patients, with therapy tailored to address gait, posture, physical demand, and environmental challenges. During the study, participants will have their walking assessed through biomechanical measures like ankle angles and gait speed, as well as clinical evaluations of muscle strength, range of motion, and use of assistive devices. Assessments occur at baseline, after 9 weeks of therapy, and again at 21 weeks to evaluate lasting effects. Researchers will also monitor balance, fatigue, depression, and stroke impact via various scales. The total participation lasts several months, allowing for measurement of both immediate and longer-term changes in walking function and safety.

Ankle Robotics After Stroke