Network meta-analysis of robot-assisted gait training interventions on lower limb motor function in stroke patients

Gao Zan; Liu Yixuan; Zhang Lichen; Hou Bing; Tang Yalei; Li Shumei; Che Pengcheng; Dou Na

doi:10.12307/2026.710

Abstract：OBJECTIVE:To conduct a network meta-analysis to systematically evaluate the rehabilitation effects of robot-assisted gait training on lower limb motor function in stroke patients,and to optimize exercise prescriptions based on research evidence regarding exercise time,frequency,cycle,and weight loss plan. METHODS:A computerized literature search was conducted using the PubMed,Web of Science,Cochrane Library,Embase,CNKI,VIP,Wanfang,and SinoMed databases to identify randomized controlled trials published from inception until January 2025.The intervention effects of robot assisted gait training(robot group)and traditional rehabilitation training(control group)on lower limb function in stroke patients were compared,and the exercise prescription parameters for single training duration,weekly training frequency,and total intervention period were optimized based on evidence-based medicine.Data integration and analysis were performed using Review Manager 5.4.1 software,and related charts were created with Stata 17.0 software to visually present the results of the study. RESULTS:(1)A total of 22 articles were finally included,with a total of 998 patients,including 492 in the control group and 506 in the robot group.(2)The meta-analysis results showed that compared with conventional rehabilitation training,robot assisted gait training effectively improved the lower limb motor function in stroke patients,as measured by the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremity score,Berg Balance Scale score,Functional Ambulation Category Scale score,and 6-minute walk test score(P<0.05).(3)The results from the cumulative ranking probability curve analysis showed that the optimal exercise prescription for improving lower limb motor function based on Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremity score was single training duration of 40-60 minutes,weekly training frequency of 6-10 times,and continuous intervention period of 8-12 weeks. CONCLUSION:The meta-analysis shows that robot assisted gait training effectively promotes the improvement of lower limb motor function,walking ability,balance function,and walking endurance in stroke patients.The most significant improvement in the Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremity score of lower limb motor function in stroke patients occurs when an exercise prescription of 40-60 minutes per session,6-10 times per week,and lasting 8-12 weeks is used.