Robotic Knee Orthosis-assisted Walking in CP

Description

Robotic exoskeletons are becoming increasingly accepted to provide upright mobility in individuals with neurological disorders. These devices can assist in overcoming gravitational forces and reduce energy consumption. Agilik is one such device intended for children with neurological disorders. However, Agilik is relatively new, and its efficacy in children with CP is unknown. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effectiveness of Agilik as an assistive device for children with CP and crouch gait. In this pilot study, ten children with CP, GMFCS level II, and crouch gait will walk with Agilik under the supervision of a physical therapist. Assessments of walking with AFO and Agilik will evaluate the efficacy of the device. The pilot study will assess if Agilik decreases crouch and improves gait characteristics in children with CP.

Conditions

Crouch Gait, Cerebral Palsy (CP)

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

Robotic exoskeletons are becoming increasingly accepted to provide upright mobility in individuals with neurological disorders. These devices can assist in overcoming gravitational forces and reduce energy consumption. Agilik is one such device intended for children with neurological disorders. However, Agilik is relatively new, and its efficacy in children with CP is unknown. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effectiveness of Agilik as an assistive device for children with CP and crouch gait. In this pilot study, ten children with CP, GMFCS level II, and crouch gait will walk with Agilik under the supervision of a physical therapist. Assessments of walking with AFO and Agilik will evaluate the efficacy of the device. The pilot study will assess if Agilik decreases crouch and improves gait characteristics in children with CP.

A Pilot Study to Examine the Effect of a Powered Knee Orthosis on Crouch Gait in Cerebral Palsy

Robotic Knee Orthosis-assisted Walking in CP

Condition
Crouch Gait
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

New York

Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, New York, United States, 10021

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at GMFCS level II
  • * Exhibits crouch gait
  • * Between 8 to 17 years of age
  • * Hip flexion contracture less than 5 degrees
  • * Knee flexion contracture less than 20 degrees when measured in prone with hips extended
  • * Thigh-foot angle is between 10 degrees (internal) to 25 degrees (external) in prone
  • * Can walk a minimum distance of 10 meters without stopping
  • * Plantarflexion contracture, when measured in neutral foot alignment
  • * No other neurological, musculoskeletal, or cardiorespiratory health conditions or injuries
  • * The presence of any cognitive impairment that could limit the ability to understand, follow simple directions, and inform when in pain
  • * Inability to participate in the study because of recent orthopedic surgery (within twelve months) or botox intervention (within six months)

Ages Eligible for Study

8 Years to 17 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

Hospital for Special Surgery, New York,

Study Record Dates

2025-12