Use of Standing Frame and "Innowalk Pro" in Patients With TBI

Several studies underline the importance of early mobilization of patients with brain injuries, leading to shorter hospital stays, less contractures, and improved general function.

The routine mobilization treatment in the rehabilitation of patients with severe brain injuries in Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital is initial use of a tilt table where tilt angle is gradually increased, and when tolerated, standing in a classic standing frame where the patient's lower body is fixed to the device in an upright standing position.

"Innowalk Pro" is a robotic standing device where legs are fixed, but passively moved by electric motors in an upright standing position. An assumption is that standing in "Innowalk Pro" might be better tolerated at an earlier stage of rehabilitation than standing in a classic standing frame.

Inclusion criteria

• Severe brain injury / stroke <1 year post injury.
• Medically stable
• Paresis in lower extremities, minimal walking function (even with personal assistance) (FIM movement (walk), score 1-2)
• Planned stay in Sunnaas RH for a minimum of 2 weeks from time of inclusion
• Tolerate 5 minutes in 40 degrees 'upright' position in tilt table (custom orthostasis test)
• Body weight ≤95 kg
• Body height ≤190 cm

Exclusion criteria

• Fractures in the lower extremities or in the columna with movement or strain restrictions or with pain.
• Aggressive and provocative behavior that affects the ability to collaborate.
• Other conditions where upright position is contraindicated