About

Kiran K. Karunakaran is a leading researcher in neurorehabilitation engineering, whose work centers on developing and evaluating robotic exoskeleton technologies for restoring mobility after acquired brain injury. His major contributions lie in demonstrating the clinical efficacy of robotic exoskeleton gait training during acute stroke rehabilitation, showing that early, high-dose, and consistent robotic assistance can significantly improve functional ambulation outcomes. His seminal 2020 paper on this topic has garnered 47 citations, establishing a foundation for integrating robotics into inpatient stroke care. Karunakaran has also extended this work to traumatic brain injury and pediatric populations, and has explored novel exoskeleton designs and control strategies for overground walking. Notably, his research investigates the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying recovery, including alterations in cortical activity during robotic gait training. With over 160 total citations across his most-cited works, Karunakaran’s research is shaping the future of rehabilitation by providing evidence-based protocols for the timing, dosage, and intensity of robotic therapy, ultimately aiming to maximize neuroplasticity and functional independence for individuals with neurological disabilities.

Research Focus

Key Achievements

7
H-Index
16
Papers
183
Total Citations
11
Avg Citations/Paper
🏆 Most Cited Paper
Robotic Exoskeleton Gait Training During Acute Stroke Inpatient Rehabilitation
47 citations · 2020
📈 Most Prolific Year: 2020 (3 Papers)
🤝 Key Collaborators: 49
🏛 Institutions: Children's Specialized Hospital, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Kessler Foundation

Top Papers

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Key Collaborators

Contact & Links

Available for collaboration
Content generated · 15 days ago