Ambulatory and Non-Ambulatory Benefits of Lower Limb Exoskeleton Use, with and without FES, in Clinical and Community Settings
Abstract
This research investigates the extent to which regular walking in an exoskeleton will provide mobility, health, and recovery benefits to individuals with spinal cord injury. The research was proposed as a series of three sub-studies. The first investigates prospective benefits while walking in an exoskeleton; the second investigates prospective additional benefits when the exoskeleton is supplement with lower limb functional electrical stimulation; and the third investigates prospective benefits during home and community use. At the conclusion of this project, the first and second studies have been completed, with respective final enrollments of 21 and 14, respectively. The third study was approved by the lead IRB, and was expected to enroll 3 participants, but the project ran out of time and funding before the third study could be initiated. Results from study 1indicate promising benefits resulting from regular exoskeletal use. Results from study 2, which is basically the same as study 1with supplemental FES, appear similar to those of study 1, perhaps indicating that, for the population involved here, supplementing an exoskeleton with FES may not have substantial benefits beyond those associated with using the exoskeleton without FES.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1213467
Entities
People
- Michael Goldfarb
Organizations
- Vanderbilt University