Design of the Wearable Power-Assist Locomotor (WPAL) for paraplegic gait reconstruction

Abstract

Purpose: To develop and clinically evaluate a novel assistive walking system, the Wearable Power-Assist Locomotor (WPAL). Methods: To evaluate the performance of WPAL, a clinical trial is conducted with four paraplegic patients. After fitting the WPAL, patients learned to use the WPAL. The length and duration of independent walking was measured and compared to conventional orthosis (Primewalk). Results: After training, all patients were able to stand, sit, and walk independently with the WPAL. Compared to a conventional orthosis (Primewalk), the duration and distance of independent ambulation increased. The physiological cost index (PCI), perceived exertion and EMG of upper extremities decreased. Conclusions: WPAL might greatly enhance the possibility of restoration gait to paraplegic patients.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• WPAL is developed to provide independent and comfortable walking for spinal cord injury patients.

• WPAL is less demanding physically than conventional orthosis (Primewalk).

• Even patients who cannot walk independently with conventional orthosis might be able to do so with WPAL.

Keywords::

• Spinal cord injury
• gait rehabilitation
• rehabilitation robotics
• motorized orthosis