ReWalk Robotics Ltd announces the publication of a first-of-its-kind case study investigating the effectiveness of its ReWalk robotic exoskeleton.
The study, which appears in the peer-reviewed journal Spinal Cord Series and Cases, published by the International Spinal Cord Society, suggests that the use of the ReWalk robotic exoskeleton helped improve quality of life for an individual with spinal cord injury.
The case study, co-authored by Prof Dr med Karsten Krakow, studied the impact on ambulation ability as well as several quality-of-life measures as part of a patient-reported survey.
After using the ReWalk system in the rehabilitation setting for 6 months, the spinal cord-injured patient demonstrated the ability to walk independently with limited supervision, as well as significant improvements in several quality-of-life measurements, including: mobility, risk of falling, motor skills, and control of bladder and bowel functions, according to a media release from ReWalk Robotics.
“This case study offers critical analysis on the impact of exoskeleton use on the health and well-being of those with spinal cord injury,” says ReWalk CEO Larry Jasinski, in the release.
“We are pleased with the findings of the report, and readily support the report’s recommendation for further studies with a greater number of participants. With this case study, Dr. Krakow and his team have provided a significant finding of the effects of the ReWalk device that we believe will encourage greater provision of exoskeleton systems by healthcare providers for those with spinal cord injuries,” he adds.
No falls, skin injuries, or technical problems were reported during the study. The ReWalk robotic exoskeleton is the only system in the United States that is cleared by the FDA for use in both the home and the rehabilitation settings, per the release.
[Source(s): ReWalk Robotics, PR Newswire]
