Effect of low dose robotic-gait training on walking capacity in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy

Objective Robotic gait training presents a promising training modality. Nevertheless, evidence supporting the efficacy of such therapy in children with cerebral palsy remains insufficient. This study aimed to assess the effect of robotic gait training in children/adolescents with cerebral palsy. Methods Twenty-four children/adolescents with bilateral cerebral palsy (12 female, 10.1 ± 3.1 years, Gross Motor Function Classification System II to IV) took part in this study. They received two 30−45 min sessions/week of Lokomat training for 12-weeks. Muscle strengths, 6-min walk exercise and gait parameters were evaluated pre- and post-training and at 6-months-follow-up. Training effect according to the level of impairment severity (moderate vs severe) was analyzed using a change from the baseline procedure. Results A significant increase in muscle strength was observed after training (p ≤ 0.01). Hip flexors and knee extensors strength changes were maintained or improved at follow-up (p