The Integration of Motor Learning Principles to Reduce Load Asymmetry Using a Novel Robotic Device in Individuals Chronically Post-Stroke

There are a number of common impairments resulting from stroke that contribute to motor deficits which affect gait, or walking ability. These manifest as decreased walking speed, and further, as stroke affects only one side of the body, there are resulting asymmetries in time, spatial and force parameters during walking. Robotic-based therapies have been used to increase walking speed and reduce asymmetry in a population of individuals after stroke, however these therapies have demonstrated results similar to that of non-robotic, or conventional training. This is possibly due to the control strategies used in robotic training, which strategies limit participant involvement and reduce learning effect. The Tethered Pelvic Assist Device (TPAD) is a robotic device that uses motorized tethers attached to a belt at the user's pelvis to guide the pelvis along a pre-set movement trajectory. These tethers can be configured in an infinite array of possibilities, and most recently have been used to facilitate a body weight shift onto the paretic limb in a population of individuals after stroke. Other robotic devices constrain the limb through the entire movement trajectory and constrict the participants ability to participate in motor planning and movement execution. The TPAD promotes weight shifting, but allows an individual to freely move the limb and to navigate leg movement and foot placement independently, without constraints. Further, if coupled with overground training to promote transfer of improvements to walking over ground, this device maybe useful at improving symmetry in individuals after stroke.