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Efficacy of Robotic-Assisted Gait Training versus Body-Weight Supported Treadmill Training on Ambulation and Function in Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomized Controlled trial
Background: Restoring walking ability after incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI) is a primary rehabilitation goal. Robotic-assisted gait training (RAGT) and body-weight supported treadmill training (BWSTT) are widely used approaches, but comparative evidence on ambulation and functional outcomes remains variable.
Objective: To compare the efficacy of RAGT versus BWSTT on ambulation speed, endurance, gait independence, and functional independence in adults with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury.
Methods: In this single-center, assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial, 60 adults with chronic iSCI (AIS C or D, >3 months post-injury) were randomized 1:1 to receive 4 weeks of gait training (5 sessions/week, 45 min/session) using either RAGT or BWSTT, in addition to standard physiotherapy. Primary outcome was change in comfortable walking speed (10-Metre Walk Test, 10MWT) at 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes included 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II (WISCI II), Spinal Cord Independence Measure (SCIM III), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), lower-limb motor score (ISNCSCI), and adverse events. Analyses were by intention-to-treat; ANCOVA adjusted for baseline values was used for continuous outcomes.
