Dual actuated gait rehabilitation treadmill implementing virtual reality and visual postural feedback

Gait disabilities are common occurrences in patients and are treated with a variety of rehabilitation techniques. Current treatments include the use of a linear treadmill system to physically stimulate the patient. Present rehabilitation treadmills lack a visual component, which can help to increase functional changes in gait after training. Incorporating a virtual element has been shown to enhance gait rehabilitation outcomes [1]. The design described in this paper consists of three main components: a dual-belt, actuated treadmill, a virtual reality visual display and a motion capture system. The treadmill system emulates various slopes, curves and stairs while displaying a corresponding immersive environment. A dual-belt driven treadmill with four height actuators produces the various terrains. A live motion avatar, linked to a Qualisys motion capture system, is displayed on three screens to provide visual feedback and promote gait improvement. The immediate application of this system is to rehabilitate patients at the Veterans Affairs hospital and determine the effectiveness of visual and spatial feedback on gait recovery.