Effect of Wearable Exoskeleton Robots on Muscle Activation and Gait Parameters on a Treadmill: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Exoskeleton robots are emerging as a transformative technology in healthcare, rehabilitation, and industrial settings, providing significant benefits such as improving gait restoration and preventing injuries. These robots enhance mobility for individuals with neuromuscular disorders by providing muscular assistance and reducing physical strain, while also supporting workers in physically demanding tasks. They improve gait efficiency, muscle activation, and overall physical function, contributing to both rehabilitation and occupational health. Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of exoskeleton use on muscle activation patterns, fatigue levels, and gait parameters in healthy individuals. Methods: Thirty-six participants engaged in a randomized sequence gait experiment on a treadmill for 30 min, both with and without an exoskeleton, with electromyography (EMG) and OptoGait measurements collected during the sessions. A one-week washout period was implemented before participants switched conditions. Results: In the Maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) analysis, significant differences were observed in the Rectus femoris (RF) and gastrocnemius(GM) when wearing the exoskeleton robot compared to not wearing it. At 10 min, 20 min, and 30 min, the differences were statistically significant (p < 0.05) for all muscles. In the muscle fatigue analysis, significant differences were observed in RF, GM, vastus medialis (VM), and hamstring(HS) at 10 min, 20 min, and 30 min (p < 0.05). In the step length and stride length analysis, significant differences were observed at 10 min and 30 min, but no differences were found at 20 min (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the use of the exoskeleton robot significantly impacts muscle activation, muscle fatigue, and gait parameters. The results emphasize the potential benefits of exoskeletons in enhancing mobility and reducing muscle strain, providing important insights for rehabilitation and occupational applications.

Keywords: loading response; maximal voluntary contraction; muscle fatigue; pre-swing; stance phase; step length; stride length; swing phase.

Figure 1

(a) Gait on a treadmill without the exoskeleton robot (b) Gait on a treadmill with the exoskeleton robot.

Figure 2

Flow diagram for Experiment.

Figure 3

Exoskeleton robot (LEXO-V Wearable Robot).