Evaluation of the effectiveness of robotic gait training and gait-focused physical therapy programs for children and youth with cerebral palsy: a mixed methods RCT.

Journal: BMC neurology
Published Date:

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Robot assisted gait training (RAGT) is considered to be a promising approach for improving gait-related gross motor function of children and youth with cerebral palsy. However, RAGT has yet to be empirically demonstrated to be effective. This knowledge gap is particularly salient given the strong interest in this intensive therapy, the high cost of the technology, and the requirement for specialized rehabilitation centre resources.

Authors

  • Lesley Wiart
    Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, 2-60 Corbett Hall, Edmonton, Alberta, T5G 2G4, Canada. lwiart@ualberta.ca.
  • Rhonda J Rosychuk
    Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
  • F Virginia Wright
    b Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital , Toronto , Ontario , Canada , and.