Effect of robot-assisted training for lower limb rehabilitation on lower limb function in stroke patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objective: The effectiveness of lower extremity rehabilitation robots in rehabilitating stroke patients is still controversial. With this systematic review, the aim is to analyze whether the assisted training of the lower limb rehabilitation robot is more effective in promoting the rehabilitation of lower limb function in stroke patients compared with traditional physical therapy.

Methods: We conducted a thorough search of nine databases for relevant randomized controlled trials published between the time of their construction and February 2024. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias in each included literature, and meta-analyses and subgroup analyses were carried out with Revman 5.4 software. This study followed the PRIMA reporting statement provided by EQUATOR.

Results: The meta-analysis includes 12 articles and 651 patients. Lower limb rehabilitation robot-assisted training significantly improved lower limb motor function, walking ability, and lower limb ability to balance in stroke patients. However, the effect on gait coordination was not statistically significant.

Conclusion: Robot-assisted training for lower limb rehabilitation may considerably enhance motor function, walking capacity, and balance function in stroke patients while also providing a novel option for patients to recuperate.

Systematic review registration: http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/#recordDetails, identifier CRD-42024504930.