Abstract: Objective To investigate the effects of Lokomat robotic- assisted gait training combined with drop foot stimulator on gait function in patients with stroke. Methods Thirty-six stroke patients were randomly divided into control group (n=18) and observation group (n=18). Both groups received routine rehabilitation training. The control group accepted Lokomat robotic-assisted gait training, while the observation group worn drop foot stimulator in addition. The training intensity was 30 minutes every day, five days per week for 6 weeks. Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Lower Limb (FMA-LL), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) and footprint analysis were used to evaluate the motor ability of lower limbs, walking ability and gait before and after training. Results There was no significant difference in the scores of FMA-LL, FAC and gait parameters (walking speed, stride width, stride length difference) before training (t<0.765, Z=0, P>0.05). The scores of FMA-LL, FAC and walking speed improved, and the stride width and stride length difference decreased after training (t>2.190, Z>3.630, P<0.05). After training, the scores of FMA-LL, FAC, walking speed and stride length difference were better in the observation group than in the control group (t>2.030, Z=-2.560, P<0.05), however, there was no significant difference in stride width between two groups (t=0.570, P>0.05). Conclusion Lokomat robotic-assisted gait training combined with foot drop stimulator could improve the lower limb motor function and gait ability in patients with stroke, and the effect might be better than using Lokomat robotic-assisted gait training only.

Key words: stroke, robotic-assisted gait training, foot drop stimulator, gait function