Wearable Hybrid Ankle-Foot Robot for Post-Stroke Rehabilitation Improving Walking and Balance Using ENMS-BSF Device

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying a new wearable hybrid ankle-foot robot called the exoneuromusculoskeleton with balance sensing feedback ENMS-BSF to help improve walking and balance in people who have had a stroke. This device integrates soft pneumatic muscle, functional electrical stimulation, an exoskeleton, and foot balance feedback to assist in correcting foot drop and foot inversion, aiming to improve muscle coordination in the affected lower limb. The study focuses on evaluating the long-term rehabilitative effects of this intervention on gait patterns after stroke. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups full ENMS-BSF assistance during 20 gait rehabilitation sessions, partial ENMS-BSF assistance during 20 sessions, or wearing the device without assistance for 20 sessions. Each session lasts about one hour and occurs 3 to 5 times per week. During sessions, participants will walk on flat ground at a natural speed with the support of a four-pronged cane, if needed. The device is designed to be lightweight and worn unilaterally during walking. Throughout the study, participants will be assessed before training, one day after completing training, and three months later using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment to measure changes in motor function. Researchers will monitor gait improvement, muscle coordination, and balance. The study lasts several weeks with follow-up to evaluate lasting effects. Participants will also undergo cognitive and balance evaluations to meet eligibility requirements and ensure safety during the trial.

ENMS With Balance Feedback for Post-stroke Ankle-foot Rehabilitation