Robotic Balance Training to Improve Postural Control and Balance Post-Traumatic Brain Injury

Participants with TBI

Inclusion Criteria

• Be between the ages of 18 and 65.
• Have been diagnosed with a TBI by a physician and be at least 6 months post injury and not more than 5 years post injury.
• Have been medically stable for 3 months prior to the most recent TBI.
• Not plan to make any drastic changes to medications (as determined by study staff) for at least 4 weeks.
• Be able to stand unsupported for 5 minutes.
• Be willing and able to give informed consent.
• Be able and willing to comply with study procedures, verbal instructions, and follow-up requirements.

Exclusion Criteria

• Weight above 300 lbs.
• Have severe cardiac disease such as heart attack or moderate or severe congestive heart failure.
• Have a pre-existing condition resulting in significant disruption in alignment or function of the lower limb during standing.
• Have additional medical conditions that affect the bones, muscles or nerves that would interfere with the balance.
• Have any previously diagnosed history of balance problems prior to TBI.
• Have fluctuating blood pressure.
• Be on any medication that may affect balance, strength, or muscle coordination (e.g. Botox).
• Be currently enrolled in another research study that is likely to affect participation in this research study.
• Have seizure disorder.

Participants without a disability

Inclusion Criteria

• Be between the ages of 18 and 65.
• Not plan to make any drastic changes to medications for at least 4 weeks.
• Not have an orthopedic, cognitive or neuromuscular disease.
• Be able to stand unsupported for 5 minutes.
• Be willing and able to give informed consent.
• Be able and willing to comply with study procedures, including follow-up requirements.

Exclusion Criteria

• Weight above 300 lbs.
• Have a history of injury to my lower limbs in the past 90 days.
• Have severe cardiac disease such as heart attack or moderate or severe congestive heart failure.
• Have a pre-existing condition resulting in significant disruption in alignment or function of the lower limb during standing.
• Have any additional medical conditions that affect my bones, muscles, or nerves that would interfere with the movement or the ability to feel touch or pain.
• Have difficulty following or responding to commands that would limit the study participation.
• Be currently enrolled in another research study that is likely to affect participation in this research study.