Apparatus and method for restoring voluntary control of locomotion in neuromotor impairments

摘要

Disclosed is a device for restoring spontaneous control of gait motion in an individual suffering from neuromotor injury, including a multi-directional trunk support system and devices for epidural electrical stimulation. The robotic interface can evaluate, enable and train movement pattern generation and balance across various natural walking behaviors in individuals with neuromotor impairment. Optionally, a pharmacological cocktail can be administered to enhance rehabilitation results. In addition, a method for evaluating, enabling, and training an individual suffering from neuromotor impairment by combining a robot-assisted evaluation tool with sophisticated neurobiomechanical and statistical analysis is disclosed. Also disclosed is a method for rehabilitation of an individual suffering from neuromotor injury, specifically partial or complete paralysis of the limb (the term also includes recovery of spontaneous control of exercise).