The effects of an electromechanical gait trainer on resistance, fatigue and quality of life in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis: A pilot study

Introduction: Gait impairments are considered as one of the most important factors limiting the activities in daily life in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Several articles demonstrated positive effect of an electromechanical gait trainer (Gang Trainer I GT‐I) in patients with neurological diseases. Aims: To evaluate the feasibility of the GTI among persons with multiple sclerosis. To examine the effect on gait, fatigue and quality of life. Design: The study was a pilot randomized trial. Patients and methods: 24 patients were recruited during a 10‐month period (March ‐ December, 2011). Inclusion criteria: EDSS 3>x<6.5; age 30>x<65; ability to walk independently for minimum 15 meters. Exclusion criteria: relapses in the previous three months; rehabilitation training in the previous 6 months. The patients were randomly assigned to an experimental group, who received 30 minutes of locomotor training with the GTI, plus 10 minutes of passive joint mobilization and stretching exercises, and a control group who received conventional physiotherapy, for a total of 12 treatment sessions. Before and after treatment and then at 1 month, the patients were evaluated by mean of clinical scales (10MWT, 6MWT, Fatigue Severity Scale, MSQOL‐54) and instrumental evaluation (gait analysis). Results: The experimental group showed significant posttreatment improvement on 6MWT. A statistically significant trend improvements were found in: 10MWT, gait speed, stride and step length. Conclusions: The GTI device could be a safe and feasible instrument that can be integrated into routinely rehabilitative programs with patients with MS and have a positive effect on endurance and gait parameters.