Robot-assisted walking treatment for hereditary spastic paraplegia

Efficacy of Robot-assisted Walking Treatment on Gait Biomechanics, Functional Outcomes, and Quality of Life in Subjects With Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP)

Observational IRCCS Eugenio Medea · NCT06728787

This study is testing whether using a robot to help with walking, along with regular physical therapy, can improve movement and quality of life for people with hereditary spastic paraplegia.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment50 (estimated)
Ages4 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorIRCCS Eugenio Medea Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bosisio Parini, Italy/lecco)
Trial IDNCT06728787 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study evaluates the effectiveness of a combined rehabilitation approach using the Lokomat robotic gait training system alongside traditional physical therapy for patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP). Participants will undergo a total of 30 sessions over three weeks, with assessments conducted before, after treatment, and at a three-month follow-up. The study aims to measure improvements in gait, functional abilities, and quality of life through various clinical-functional assessments. This approach seeks to enhance the rehabilitation experience and outcomes for individuals affected by this rare neurological disorder.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 4 to 70 with a genetic or clinical diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia who can walk independently.

Not a fit: Patients with severe lower limb muscle retractions, recent lower limb surgeries, or acute neurological disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve mobility and quality of life for patients with hereditary spastic paraplegia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using robotic gait training in neurological disorders have shown promising results, suggesting potential efficacy for this approach in hereditary spastic paraplegia.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* genetic or clinical diagnosis of HSP.
* age greater than 4 years and less than 70
* femur length \> 23 cm
* ability to walk independently indoors, with or without walking aids.

Exclusion Criteria:

* botulinum toxin injection or lower limb surgery in the previous 6 months
* severe lower limb muscle retractions
* severe osteoporosis
* unhealed skin lesions in lower limbs
* cardiovascular instability
* acute or progressive neurological disorders
* behavioral problemS

Where this trial is running

Bosisio Parini, Italy/lecco

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.