Discussion on: 'Robust Discrete-Time H_ ∞Control for Unsupported Paraplegic Standing: Experimental Results'

摘要

Many studies have addressed (FES)(Functional Electrical Stimulation-supported paraplegic standing (e.g.). Until now, the only practical and functional standing in paraplegics has been obtained using additional supports like crutches. Apparently, it is very difficult to realize unsupported stance in paraplegics. Why? We agree with the authors of the paper 'Robust discrete-time H_∞ control for unsupported paraplegic standing: experimental results' that balance control is a key problem. In reaction to this paper, we would like to address three topics: the reduction of the number of degrees of freedom of the body induced by the total bracing of the body, which limits the available modalities for balance control, the reduction of the effective ankle stiffness by the inner moment control loop envisioned in the paper and the remaining possibility of voluntary balance control in paraplegics.