Robotic technology (ROBERT®) to enhance muscle strength in the hip flexor muscles following spinal cord injury: a feasibility study

Study design

Feasibility study.

Objective

To determine the feasibility of conducting a large trial designed to determine whether the ROBERT^® can be used to increase the strength of the hip flexor muscles after spinal cord injury (SCI). The ROBERT^® is a robotic device that provides assisted active movement while supporting the weight of the leg. Focus was on recruitment capability, suitability, and acceptability of the intervention and outcome measure.

Setting

Specialised SCI centre in Denmark.

Methods

All first-time admitted patients were screened to assess participant recruitment capability. Four people with SCI < 3 months tested a protocol consisting of 60 repetitions of hip flexion in supine conducted with the assistance of the ROBERT^® three times a week for 4 weeks. Feasibility was assessed based on adherence to the protocol and completion rate and from the participants’ perspectives. Maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) was accessed at baseline and four weeks.

Results

The recruitment rate was 8% (7 months). The four participants completed 44 out of 48 sessions (92%). No adverse events occurred. One physiotherapist was required to set-up and supervise each session. The active exercise time varied from 7.5 to 17 min. The participants found the ROBERT^® a good supplement to their usual rehabilitation. We were able to measure MVC in even very weak hip flexor muscles with a dynamometer MicroFET2 fixed to a frame.

Conclusion

The ROBERT^® was feasible and acceptable. The participants perceived it as a supplement, not a replacement to usual physiotherapy. However, recruitment to the study was slow.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05558254. Registered 28th September 2022.