Using Ekso exoskeleton for gait training in acute stroke rehabilitation
Achieving Meaningful Clinical Benchmarks With Ekso Gait Training During Acute Stroke Inpatient Rehabilitation.
This study is testing if using a robotic exoskeleton called Ekso can help people recovering from a stroke walk better during their rehab compared to regular physical therapy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Schenectady, New York) |
| Trial ID | NCT05241457 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study evaluates the effectiveness of Ekso gait training, a robotic exoskeleton, for patients recovering from acute stroke during their inpatient rehabilitation. The study aims to compare the outcomes of patients receiving Ekso-assisted gait training with those undergoing standard physical therapy. By facilitating active participation in gait training during the critical early stages of recovery, the study seeks to improve walking outcomes and balance. The research is conducted at Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital, focusing on patients with right or left hemispheric strokes who meet specific eligibility criteria.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 years old who are inpatients at Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital and have experienced a right or left hemispheric stroke.
Not a fit: Patients who may not benefit include those with no paresis, paraplegia, quadriplegia, or significant comorbidities affecting gait.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery outcomes for stroke patients by improving their mobility and independence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that exoskeleton-assisted gait training can be as effective as conventional methods, indicating potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Inpatient at Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital * Right or left hemispheric stroke * \>18 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * No paresis * Paraplegia * Quadriplegia * FAC of 2,3 or 4 * Weight \> 220 lbs (Ekso manufacturer criteria) * Height \> 6'4" (Ekso manufacturer criteria) * \> 3 months post stroke onset * Comorbidities affecting gait (LE fractures, Parkinson's, Severe Polyneuropathy) * LE/sacral wounds that come into contact with the Ekso * LE contractures that cannot be accommodated by Ekso * Prior Stroke * Weight Bearing Restrictions 8 * Unable to follow 1-2 step commands. * Contact precautions for COVID-19
Where this trial is running
Schenectady, New York
- Sunnyview — Schenectady, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Karah Lenge, DPT — Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital
- Study coordinator: Amy Teale, PhD
- Email: amy.teale@sphp.com
- Phone: 518-386-3613
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.