Meta-analysis of 14 trials measures exoskeleton gait training after stroke

A systematic review and meta-analysis published October 16, 2026 in Frontiers in Neurology pooled 14 randomized controlled trials (565 participants) comparing wearable lower-limb robotic exoskeleton gait training with control interventions after stroke. Pooled mean differences favored the exoskeleton groups on the Functional Ambulation Category (0.39, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.63, nine trials), Berg Balance Scale (1.66 points, 95% CI 0.52 to 2.81, eleven trials), Fugl-Meyer lower extremity score (2.40 points, 95% CI 1.63 to 3.16, eight trials) and 6-minute walk distance (19.83 m, 95% CI 2.21 to 37.45, six trials), while 10-meter walk time, Timed Up and Go and daily-living scores did not differ between groups. The authors list heterogeneous devices and training doses, mostly immediate post-intervention follow-up, and prediction intervals that crossed the null as limitations.

Why it matters. Clinicians weighing exoskeleton gait training have pooled effect sizes with the caveats spelled out, and manufacturers have a current list of the outcome measures reviewers pool.