Optimal gait rehabilitation protocol with hybrid assistive limbs for acute stroke patients

Ahmet Bugra Selvi

Supervisors: Dr Vicky Booth, Ayse Kucukyilmaz, Shirley Thomas

Stroke is a prevalent disease globally. Many stroke survivors require rehabilitation for the restoration of function and gait. Recent advances are encouraging a new age in gait rehabilitation with the development of exoskeleton robots. Moreover, the increasing use of robots in gait rehabilitation has become a hope for many different types of patients, including those with different types of stroke. The topic of how these cutting-edge robots should be used to improve walking has yet to receive much research. The lack of specific protocols with proven efficacy on how to use these devices in a UK rehabilitation setting is a gap in the literature that needs to be filled. That’s what Ahmet will explore in his PhD adventure.

The purpose of his research is to develop an appropriate and acceptable protocol for gait rehabilitation with hybrid assistive devices. This will be accomplished by conducting a thorough literature review, investigating current practices, and collaborating with expert teams in the UK and abroad on consensus research. It is thought that the findings of the study will contribute to a new generation of gait rehabilitation services by establishing an evidence-based protocol to guide all gait rehabilitation clinics across the UK.