Effect of robotic performance-based error-augmentation versus error-reduction training on the gait of healthy individuals

Effective locomotion training with robotic exoskeletons requires identification of optimal control algorithms to better facilitate motor learning. Two commonly employed training protocols emphasize use of training stimuli that either augment or reduce performance errors. The current study sought to identify which of these training strategies promote better short-term modification of a typical gait pattern in healthy individuals as a framework for future application to neurologically impaired individuals. Ten subjects were assigned to each of a performance-based error-augmentation or error-reduction training group. All subjects completed a 45-min session of treadmill walking at their preferred speed with a robotic exoskeleton. Target templates prescribed an ankle path for training that corresponded to an increased step height. When subjects’ instantaneous ankle positions fell below the inferior virtual wall of the target ankle path, robotic forces were applied that either decreased (error-reduction) or increased (error-augmentation) the deviation from the target path. When the force field was turned on, both groups walked with ankle paths better approximating the target template compared to baseline. When the force field was removed unexpectedly during catch and post-training trials, only the error-augmentation group maintained an ankle path close to the target ankle path. Further investigation is required to determine if a similar training advantage is provided for neurologically impaired individuals.

► A comparison of error-augmentation (EA) versus error-reduction (ER) treadmill training on the ability to produce a newly prescribed footpath was investigated in healthy individuals. ► A robotic leg exoskeleton was used to apply EA and ER force fields during treadmill walking. ► Both EA and ER groups showed some ability to adopt the prescribed footpath during training. ► The error-augmentationgroup exhibited greater and more persistent short-term changes their footpaths.