Can Robot-Assisted Gait Training In Addition To Conventional Rehabilitation Provide Better Outcomes In Children With Cerebral Palsy?

A total of 26 patients who were diagnosed with CP \[diplegic, with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level of 2-5\] and who regularly participated in a rehabilitation programme were included in the study after obtaining approval from their parents. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 (n = 13) received conventional therapy (65 min, 2 days/week ×8) and group 2 (n = 13) received 25 minutes of robot-assisted gait training (RoboGait®) in addition to conventional therapy (40 min, 2 days/week ×8).

Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the effects of robot-assisted training (RAT) on motor functions, spasticity status, balance and functionality in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Method: A total of 26 patients who were diagnosed with CP \[diplegic, with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level of 2-5\] and who regularly participated in a rehabilitation programme were included in the study after obtaining approval from their parents. The patients were randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 (n = 13) received conventional therapy (65 min, 2 days/week ×8) and group 2 (n = 13) received 25 minutes of robot-assisted gait training (RoboGait®) in addition to conventional therapy (40 min, 2 days/week ×8). Outcome measures: GMFCS was used to evaluate motor functions and Modified Ashworth Scale was used to evaluate spasticity. Paediatric Berg Balance Scale, Paediatric Functional Independence Measure and timed up and go test were used to assess balance and functional status. The evaluations were performed at baseline and after 8 weeks of therapy.