Improving walking in children with cerebral palsy using biofeedback and robotic assistance
Quantifying Patient-specific Changes in Neuromuscular Control in Cerebral Palsy: Adaptation and Biofeedback During Gait
This study is testing a new way to help children with cerebral palsy walk better by using a special treadmill and robotic support to see if it helps them learn new walking patterns.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Ages | 7 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Washington Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Saint Paul, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT05899153 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research evaluates walking function in children with cerebral palsy (CP) by examining how they adapt and learn new movement patterns. The study employs a split-belt treadmill and a real-time multimodal feedback system, including a wearable robotic device that provides ankle resistance and audiovisual cues based on muscle activity. The goals are to measure adaptation rates, assess the impact of repeated training or orthopedic surgery, and explore individual differences in adaptation related to walking improvements. This innovative approach aims to enhance rehabilitation strategies for children with CP.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children diagnosed with bilateral cerebral palsy affecting both legs and classified as Gross Motor Functional Classification System Level II.
Not a fit: Patients who have had recent surgeries, lower-extremity injuries, or specific medical conditions that hinder participation may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved walking abilities and rehabilitation strategies for children with cerebral palsy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using similar biofeedback and robotic assistance approaches have shown promise in improving motor function in various populations, suggesting potential success for this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of bilateral cerebral palsy that impacts both legs * Gross Motor Functional Classification System Level II * No surgery or lower-extremity injuries 12 months prior to enrollment * No botulinum toxin injections in prior 3 months * No prior selective dorsal rhizotomy surgery * No history of seizures or cardiac conditions that would preclude walking on a treadmill for 20 minutes * No current pain that hinders walking
Where this trial is running
Saint Paul, Minnesota
- Gillette Children's — Saint Paul, Minnesota, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Katherine M Steele, PhD — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Katherine M Steele, PhD
- Email: kmsteele@uw.edu
- Phone: 206-685-2390
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.