Effects of Backward Gait Training With Exoskeleton on Motor Functions

Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years of age or older * English or Spanish speaking * A diagnosis first stroke (intracerebral hemorrhage or acute ischemic stroke) * Referred to Reading Rehabilitation Hospital Outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic (hereafter referred to as outpatient PT) Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to follow 1-step commands * \> 220 pounds (100 kg) * Height \< 5'0" or \> 6'4" * Unable to take a few steps with assistance * A score of \> 42/56 on Berg Balance Scale (BBS) * Severe cardiac disease (New York Heart Association Classification IV) * Severe spasticity (Modified Ashworth score \> 3) * Unstable spine or unhealed pelvic/limb fractures * Active heterotrophic ossification impacting lower extremity range of motion * Significant lower or upper extremity contractures * Inability to achieve neutral ankle dorsiflexion with 12° of knee flexion * Psychiatric or cognitive issues that could interfere with operating the exoskeleton * Pregnancy * Colostomy * Poor skin integrity in areas in contact with the EksoNRTM * Unresolved deep vein thrombosis * Lower limb prosthesis or amputation * Leg length discrepancies \> 0.5 inches for upper legs, 0.75 inches for lower legs * ROM restrictions preventing normal, reciprocal gait * Inability to stand for \> 60 seconds due to pain or orthostatic hypotension