Using robotic-assisted technology to improve lower-limb function in people with stroke

Robotic-assisted gait training is becoming an important component of the rehabilitation strategy when working with patients diagnosed with a stroke. To date, research has largely focused on the effect of using robotic-assisted devices on lower limb function through the assessment of gait and balance parameters in sub-acute and chronic stroke patients, in a clinical setting. However, there may be significant benefit of implementing robotic-assisted gait training devices in the acute hospital setting soon after stroke diagnosis, but also with chronic stroke patients as a home-based rehabilitation tool. This article concludes that further research is needed when considering the influence of robotic-assisted technology on the early mobilisation (i.e., ability to stand and walk with and/or without the support from a therapist) of stroke patients in the hospital setting, their implementation in a home-based environment, and the need to incorporate more robust, quantifiable and scientific techniques to evaluate stroke patient progress through a variety of biomechanical assessment parameters.