Effects of Robotic Tilt-table Training on Functional Recovery in Patients With Subacute Stroke

Background: Early recovery of cognitive function and lower-limb strength is critical for regaining mobility and independence after stroke. However, patients with cognitive impairment often have limited participation in conventional rehabilitation (CR). Objects: This study compared the effects of robotic tilt-table training (RT) group and CR group on cognitive function, lower-limb strength, balance, gait, and activities of daily living in patients with subacute stroke. Methods: In this retrospective study, 122 patients with subacute stroke were divided into two groups: the RT group and the CR group. The interventions were administered 5 times per week for a period of 4 weeks. Cognitive function was assessed using the Korean version of the Mini-Mental State Examination, muscle strength using Manual Muscle Test, spasticity using the Modified Ashworth Scale, balance using the Berg Balance Scale, gait using the Functional Ambulation Category, and activities of daily living using the Korean version of the Modified Barthel Index, both before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Mann–Whitney U-tests. Between-group comparisons were performed on change scores (Δ = post − pre), and baseline differences were adjusted using ANCOVA or rank ANCOVA as appropriate (two-sided α = 0.05). Results: After 4 weeks of intervention, both groups showed within-group improvements in balance, gait, and activities of daily living (p < 0.05); however, the RT group demonstrated greater improvements in cognitive function and lower-limb muscle strength compared to the CR group. The two groups differed significantly in cognitive function and lower extremity muscle strength (p < 0.05) but not in spasticity, balance, gait, or activities of daily living (p > 0.05). Conclusion: RT may be effective in improving cognitive function and lower-limb strength in patients with subacute stroke, potentially serving as an adjunct rehabilitation strategy to promote early mobility and functional recovery. However, its effects on balance, gait, and spasticity were not significant, indicating the need for complementary task-specific training and further controlled studies.