Effect and optimal exercise prescription of robot-assisted gait training on lower extremity motor function in stroke patients: a network meta-analysis

Objective This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of robot-assisted gait training (RAGT) and explore the optimal exercise prescription using a network meta-analysis approach. Data sources A comprehensive search was conducted on randomized controlled trials comparing robotic and conventional rehabilitation published up to January 2024 in PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, VIP, Wanfang, and SinoMed databases. Review methods The evaluation parameters included Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Lower Extremity (FMA-LE), Functional Ambulation Category (FAC), Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). Two investigators independently performed study screening, data extraction, and bias evaluation. Data were merged, analyzed, and plotted using Review Manager 5.4.1 and Stata 18.0 software. Results A total of 21 articles involving 822 subjects were included in the analysis. RAGT positively influenced FMA-LE score (MD = 3.74, 95%CI 3.02-4.46, P < 0.05), FAC score (MD = 0.31, 95%CI 0.1-0.53, P < 0.05), BBS score (MD = 3.63, 95%CI 2.46-4.80, P < 0.05), and 6MWT score (MD = 23.73, 95%CI 15.31-32.14, P < 0.05). Surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) values indicated that an exercise time of 40-60 min/training (97.4%), exercise frequency of 2-5 times/week (87.6%), and exercise duration of 8-12 weeks (78.1%) were most effective in improving the FMA-LE score. Conclusions RAGT can effectively improve lower limb motor function, walking function, balance function, and walking endurance in stroke patients. For optimal improvement in FMA-LE score, an exercise time of 40-60 min/training, exercise frequency of 2-5 times/week, and exercise duration of 8-12 weeks are recommended.