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1 – 4 of 4Stephanie A. Kolakowsky-Hayner, Kandis Jones, Amanda Kleckner, Kimberly Kuchinski, Alyssa Metzger and Jennifer Schueck-Plominski
Cerebral palsy is one of the leading causes of chronic disability in children. The current pilot study investigated (1) whether an exoskeleton system enables physiological gait…
Abstract
Purpose
Cerebral palsy is one of the leading causes of chronic disability in children. The current pilot study investigated (1) whether an exoskeleton system enables physiological gait patterns and (2) whether the system is user-friendly enough to envision its use in a clinical setting.
Design/methodology/approach
Participants included a convenience sample of six children with cerebral palsy. Following informed consent, study volunteers underwent baseline assessments, participated in eight sessions during which they used the exoskeleton system with the objective of achieving proficiency in use of the system, and underwent an end-of-study assessment of walking. Satisfaction and usability questionnaires were given to the family/caregiver.
Findings
All participants achieved a more regular gait pattern and improved their 6-Minute Walk Test scores. Overall satisfaction and usability were rated as good.
Practical implications
The exoskeleton system enabled physiological gait patterns, and the system was user-friendly enough to envision its use in a clinical setting.
Originality/value
There is potential for guiding treatment plans for individuals with cerebral palsy.
Details