Soleus H-reflex phase-dependent modulation is preserved during stepping within a robotic exoskeleton

摘要: Abstract Objective To investigate to what extent the phase-dependent modulation of soleus H-reflex is preserved when bilateral leg movements are electromechanically driven by a robotic exoskeleton at different levels body weight support (BWS) in healthy subjects. Methods The was elicited posterior tibial nerve stimulation with 1-ms single pulse an intensity that M-waves ranged from 4% 9% maximal M-wave across Stimuli were randomly dispersed step cycle which divided into 16 equal bins. At each bin, 100 ms after test and used normalize associated H-reflex. Electromyographic (EMG) activity major hip, knee, ankle muscles recorded surface bipolar electrodes. For subject muscle, integrated EMG profile established plotted as function phases. gain determined slope relationship between amplitudes before for bin. Results During assisted stepping, pattern similar 25% 50% BWS, linear amplitude background found, reflex did not change alterations BWS level. smaller compared BWS. Conclusions Body unloading, decreased extensors, reduced movement key factors phasic excitability be manifested. Significance Robotic devices utilized rehabilitation gait neurological disorders. Based on our findings, spinal interneuronal circuits involved will engaged physiological manner during stepping