Understanding Physical Activity Facilitated by a Single Session of Robotic Walking for Children and Small Adults Living With Severe Mobility Impairments.

Background: Physical activity has many benefits but can be hard to achieve for people living with severe mobility impairments. Robotic walking may be an effective way for these individuals to achieve physical activity.

Objective: The aim of this study is to characterize the physical activity performed by children and small adults with severe mobility impairments during a single session of robotic walking.

Methods: We conducted a series of single-session assessments to evaluate the heart rate response experienced by children and small adults with severe mobility impairments during overground walking with an untethered robotic walking aid designed for children (Trexo). Outcomes evaluating physical activity were the average percent heart rate reserve (%HRR) throughout the training session, the most intense minute of training, and the total time spent physically active (at >20% HRR). Nonparametric descriptive statistics are presented as median (25th-75th percentiles).

Results: Fifteen individuals (aged 5-24) unable to walk independently participated in this study. Participants using the robotic walker had an average %HRR during training of 30% (21%-35%) and reached 40% (30%-50%) HRR in the highest minute of training. Participants spent a median of 17 (10-27) minutes and 99% (57%-100%) of the robotic walking time physically active.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that robotic walking can facilitate at least light physical activity for children and small adults with severe mobility impairments. The results of this study can be used to inform future providers on the physical activity benefits of robotic walking.