Gait rehabilitation in patients with spastic hemiparesis: new opportunities

Gait disturbances are a common consequence of stroke. New technologies, such as exoskeletons (ESs), may aid recovery, but their effectiveness has not yet been proven enough. Objective : to evaluate the medical ESs and spasticity treatment for gait rehabilitation in patients with spastic hemiparesis due acute Patients methods . The study included 42 who had stroke 1.5–4 years ago. Clinical assessment included: Tardieu scale (TS), Modified Ashworth (MAS), Rankin Scale, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS); 10 Meter Walk Test (10MWT) Berg balance (BBТ), Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI). were divided into two representative groups (22 20 participants). 1 st group training ES ExoAtlet days (original method differentiation efforts used), 2 nd was assigned physical therapy same period. Then all received an injection 300–400 U botulinum neurotoxin (BNT) under ultrasound control muscles lower limb. examination carried out at three points (CPs): day (1 ), 12 th (2 33 rd (3 ). Results discussion Comparison both on CT showed significantly (p<0.05) better results 1st group: 10MWT (0.43 0.47 m/s), BBT (42 44.5), back thigh – hamstrings assessed by TS (132° 137.5°). speed apparently increased training, correction postural-phobic disorders, stretching muscles, suppression stretch reflex. At CPs, injections incobotulinum toxin (Xeomin ® ) performed. On 3 CP, obtained according tests: (0.49 0.56 (46 49), (144° 155°). differences between CPs absolute increase test (p<0.01): (0.07 0.12 (3.5 8.5), (14.5° 22°). Improvement indicators third CP demonstrates potentiating effect BONT exercises. Conclusion. use is promising technique restoring gait: combined exoskeleton gives pronounced effect.