Sit-to-Stand Trainer: An Apparatus for Training “Normal-Like” Sit to Stand Movement

Abstract

Sit-to-stand (STS) transfer training is probably the most demanding task in rehabilitation. We have developed an innovative STS trainer that offers variable levels of mechanical support and speeds of STS transfer. In a group of neurologically intact individuals we compared kinematics, kinetics and electromyography (EMG) patterns of STS transfer assessed in three experimental conditions with increasing degree of mechanical support (MIN STS-T, MED STS-T, and MAX STS-T) to natural, unassisted STS movement (NO STS-T). The resulting ankle, knee, hip joint and trunk angles in experimental conditions MED STS-T and MIN STS-T were very similar to experimental condition NO STS-T. Vertical ground reaction forces and EMG patterns in the tibialis anterior, quadriceps and hamstrings show a clear trend toward "normal" patterns as the level of mechanical support from the device is progressively reduced. We have further tested the feasibility of the STS trainer in five stroke subjects at two levels of support showing that increased voluntary effort is needed when the support is reduced. Based on these results we conclude that negligible constraints are imposed by the device on a user's STS transfer kinematics, which is an important prerequisite for considering clinical use of the device for training in neurologically impaired.

Comparison of the tibialis anterior and soleus muscles isolation ratios during the sit-to-stand movement in elderly people

“…Such changes in the properties of the quadriceps femoris muscle with age can lead to strength deficits in the quadriceps femoris of elderly adults4 ) . A previous study showed that the TA and SOL were co-activated during STS movement5 ) . However, the SOL muscle isolation ratio was significantly lower in the pre-TO phase of the STS task.…”

The Detection of the Rise to Stand Movements Using Bereitschaftspotential from Scalp Electroencephalography (EEG)

“…Then, we checked whether using the BP, we will predict the participant's will of standing-up and being-seated. One of the co-author and other researchers have developed support tool for the elderly or those with disabilities [19], [20], [22], [29]. It will be difficult to find the timing to support the users.…”

“…The latency between the BP onset and the onset of the surface electromyogram (EMG) are seen in individuals with impairments [21]. Some apparatuses help the individuals to support the sit-to-stand behavior [19], [20], [22]. To use the apparatuses, the timing for the onset of the rise to stand is important to support the behavior.…”

Balance Control Learning Method for Improving Pulling Chair Movement: A Case Study of a Quadriplegic Wheelchair User

“…Several studies have proposed balance control learning using an assistive system for physically challenged persons such as the elderly [2] and stroke patients [3][4][5][6][7]. Mostly, balance training is performed to improve an upright standing posture or a sit-to-stand transfer.…”

“…Although such training can be conducted easily, these methods target people who can stand stably and they lack any safety function to prevent falling or knee buckling. In order to prevent falls, some systems require the patient to either use a harness [2,3] or wear/ attach a system on their body [6,7]. However, these balance training methods require physical therapists to attach the equipment.…”