Exoskeleton and Spinal Cord Injury (EXTra-SCI)

Project Summary

Powered exoskeletons using robotic suits have recently been introduced to rehabilitation of individuals with spinal cord injuries. Exoskeletons provide individuals with the opportunity to experience standing and walking at a low metabolic cost. They can also aid in decreasing spasticity and improve bowel movement. The current study aims to study the effects of powered exoskeleton on cardiovascular performance. This is measured by resting blood pressure and heart rate, peak oxygen consumption during walking, energy expenditure, and whole and regional body composition assessments. The study will also evaluate the effects of the exoskeleton training on stand-up time, walking time, distance covered and speed of walking. The current study consists of 20 subjects, 10 with compete injuries and 10 with incomplete injuries, who will participate in a powered exoskeleton for one or two times a week for 12 weeks.

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