Systematic Review of EMG-Driven Robots in Lower Extremity Post-Stroke Rehabilitation

Abstract

Stroke is a prevalent health issue worldwide, often leading to lower extremity deficits and posing a significant challenge for physiotherapists in terms of gait rehabilitation. With the advent of technological advancements, new rehabilitation tools like EMG-driven robots have been developed. However, their effectiveness in rehabilitation needs to be explored due to their high cost. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether EMG-driven robot therapy was more effective than conventional physiotherapy for gait rehabilitation in stroke patients. The researchers conducted a literature search using the PubMed, Cochrane, and PEDro databases and included only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focused on stroke patients with gait impairment, assessed using clinical functional scales. The treatment compared EMG-driven robot therapy for the lower extremities with conventional therapy. The analysis included three studies, which showed no significant improvement in locomotion, functional outcomes, or balance parameters with EMG-driven robots alone. However, when combined with conventional physiotherapy, EMG-driven robots demonstrated improvement in these outcomes. Positive effects were observed for spasticity and thigh circumference. In conclusion, EMG-driven robots can be an effective way to improve gait rehabilitation in stroke patients; however, further research with a specific protocol and explanation of the adaptation to each patient is needed.