Clinical Research Directory

Spinal Stimulation With Gait Training to Improve Lower Limbs Motor Recovery in Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury (SCI) often results in partial or complete loss of movement. In the subacute phase (\< 6 months), the central nervous system shows increased potential for neuroplasticity, making it more responsive to rehabilitation and external stimulation. Standard care in rehabilitation centers relies on activity-based therapy (ABT), which uses intensive, task-specific training to promote recovery. Although ABT can improve mobility, its effects are often limited due to the nature of SCI and the indirect activation of neural circuits. Recent findings suggest that adding transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) to ABT in chronic SCI (\> 12 months) can enhance lower-limb motor recovery. This study will evaluate whether combining tSCS with gait training is safe and feasible in individuals with subacute SCI and whether it improves lower-limb motor outcomes compared with gait training alone. The investigators hypothesize that pairing gait training with tSCS early after injury will be safe and feasible and that tSCS delivered during gait training will augment leg muscle activation and lead to greater functional improvements. The study will also assess the feasibility, safety and tolerability of implementing this combined intervention in a intensive functional rehabilitation setting.

Pelvic-Restricted vs. Pelvic-Free Robot-Assisted Gait Training in Stroke Patients

This randomized controlled clinical trial aims to compare the effects of pelvic-free versus pelvic-restricted robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) on gait pattern, balance, and fear of falling in stroke patients. Stroke survivors often experience gait impairments, reduced balance, and fear of falling, which limit independence and quality of life. Conventional physiotherapy requires high intensity and repetition but is restricted by therapist capacity. Robotic gait systems provide intensive, repetitive, and safe training; however, most limit pelvic motion, potentially disrupting natural gait patterns and balance strategies. A total of 36 participants with chronic stroke (≥6 months post-stroke, age ≥18 years, hemiplegic gait disorder, Functional Ambulation Category ≥2) will be randomized into two groups: (1) pelvic-free RAGT plus conventional rehabilitation, or (2) pelvic-restricted RAGT plus conventional rehabilitation. Interventions will consist of 8 RAGT sessions (twice weekly) and 20 conventional rehabilitation sessions (five times weekly) over 4 weeks. Primary outcomes include gait analysis parameters (gait speed, step length, cadence, temporal symmetry index) and clinical measures such as the Berg Balance Scale, Functional Ambulation Category, Motricity Index (lower limb), and Falls Efficacy Scale-International. Assessments will be performed at baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment. The study hypothesizes that pelvic-free RAGT will improve gait symmetry, balance, and reduce fear of falling more effectively than pelvic-restricted training. Results are expected to provide evidence supporting the integration of pelvic-free robotic gait systems into post-stroke rehabilitation to enhance functional recovery and patient confidence

Reflex Excitability in Post-stroke Stiff-Knee Gait

The purpose of this study is to examine the reflex excitability of the rectus femoris in individuals with and without post-stroke Stiff-Knee gait. We use electrical stimulation of the peripheral nerve innervating the rectus femoris for a well-controlled reflex stimulus. We are investigating whether reflex excitability of the rectus femoris correlates with gait kinematics.

Robotic Gait Rehabilitation in Parkinson's Disease

The purpose of this study is to investigate the implementation of a novel gait rehabilitation stimulus (G-EO System) that could advance current clinical practices. The goal is to establish the safety and feasibility of gait training using the G-EO System as well as investigating the impact on mobility, function, quality of life, and participatory outcomes. Research Design: We propose a single-blinded, randomized trial of electromechanically-assisted gait training using the G-EO System in patients with Parkinson's disease with gait disability. Specific Aim 1 will establish the safety and feasibility of gait training using the G-EO System. Specific Aim 2 will determine the efficacy of gait training using the G-EO System for improving mobility, function, and quality of life

Gait Parameters and Balance in Patients With Obstructive Lung Diseases

In the literature, most of the studies examining the gait characteristics and balance separately or examining the relationship between them are on patients with COPD. No study examining gait parameters in other obstructive pulmonary patients such as bronchiectasis and asthma was found.A convincing link between gait disturbances and falls in COPD patients is still unknown and further research is needed. Therefore, the purpose of our study; gait parameters and balance in individuals with obstructive pulmonary disease. We will also examine the relationship between gait parameters and extrapulmonary clinical indicators of these individuals.