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Project

Robot-assisted gait training: a way to investigate a critical time window for stroke rehabilitation.

Animal models suggest a limited time window of increased repair activity in the brain during the first weeks after damage, for example after a stroke. Within this time window, training responsiveness is increased suggesting that this is the optimal time to start intensive rehabilitation, e.g. gait training. Disappointingly, early stroke care is characterized by physical inactivity. This lack of intensive therapy probably explains rather disappointing mobility outcome, since half of stroke survivors leave rehabilitation facilities in a wheelchair. The World Health Organisation expects 1.5 million new cases of stroke per year in 2025. If innovation in stroke rehabilitation lacks, the increasing burden of stroke will inevitably lead to a growing disabled and dependent chronic stroke population. A novel therapeutic strategy are wearable exoskeletons. This device allows an earlier and more intensive rehabilitation approach as it assists in weightbearing and walking. This technology has the potential to change acute stroke rehabilitation from a passive into a motivating, active time as it allows early training in an enriched learning environment. However, due to its recent development this type of therapy is not yet investigated. We aim to fill this gap with the proposed project by delivering published evidence on feasibility and effectiveness.
Date:1 Jan 2018 →  31 Dec 2018
Keywords:NEUROPLASTICITY, REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY, STROKE, RECOVERY
Disciplines:Rehabilitation engineering, Behavioural neuroscience, Neurological and neuromuscular diseases, Biomechanics, Rehabilitation