Is preparatory training with intensive visual stimulation feasible in stroke patients to reduce body weight support over four weeks during robot-assisted gait training?

Zusammenfassung der Studie

After signing the written information and consent form, the inclusion criteria will be checked, supported by a recognition test for cognitive impairment (MoCA test). Then, if the person meets the criteria, the participant will be randomly assigned to one of the groups: preparatory exercises with or without intensive visual stimulation. The first Lokomat training serves to set up the device. In the second training session on the Lokomat, the extent of the required body weight support and guidance force will be determined. No further examinations will be conducted during the six additional training sessions at the Valens rehabilitation center. In each Lokomat training, the protocol of preparatory exercises with or without intensive visual stimulation will be carried out, depending on the group. In the last training session on the Lokomat, the initial measurements (body weight support and guidance force during Lokomat training) will be repeated. Around the last training session, a personal 30-60 minute interview will also be conducted with some participants to gather opinions and experiences regarding the preparatory training to assess feasibility.

(BASEC)

Untersuchte Intervention

The IVS4 is a device for intensive visual stimulation, based on the combination of three therapy forms: motor imagery (MI), mirror therapy (MT), and action observation (AO) (Dessintey, 2025), designed for the lower extremities. The goal is to promote relearning and to regain leg function, relying on the brain's neuroplasticity. In this study, individuals assigned to the intervention group will perform a series of preparatory exercises with the IVS4 under the supervision of physiotherapists before training with the Lokomat. The Lokomat training takes place three times a week and lasts about 45 minutes per training session for each participant. Overall, the training lasts approximately 60 minutes, all of which are supervised.

(BASEC)

Untersuchte Krankheit(en)

A subacute stroke (<6 months ago) affecting the legs, impairing walking ability

(BASEC)

Sponsor

Dr Roman Gonzenbach

(BASEC)

Name der bewilligenden Ethikkommission (bei multizentrischen Studien nur die Leitkommission)

Ethikkommission Ostschweiz EKOS

(BASEC)

Datum der Bewilligung durch die Ethikkommission

03.04.2025

(BASEC)

Ergebnisse der Studie