DrConnected

Ah more stuff of science fiction for you today, and a story that could spell new hope for the thousands of patients left unable to use their legs and condemned to a life in the wheelchair.  Forget robo-cop, this is robo-man, robo-woman or robo-child, today we can bring news of working robotic legs that can get people back to their feet – we present Rex.

One of the first users of the product is a spinal cord injury patient, who says that the Rex (Robotic Exoskeleton) has changed his life back to virtually normal after 5 years as a wheel chair user.  The patient must be able to lever themselves to sitting on the platform of the ‘legs’ and then strap them to their own legs, at three points, plus the foot and waist braces.  Rex can then be controlled by a joystick located on the arm rest extensions. Movements are at best slow and jerky, but for long term wheel chair users this has to be a breakthrough.  Currently the unit only available in the developing country, New Zealand, costs $150,000 and patients must be onsite for proper fitting and training, however this is going to be extended to more countries in the near future.

The legs are rechargeable and will currently run for 2 hours of active use before needing to be charged again. Unfortunately for some potential users there are height, weight and frame size restrictions, plus the appropriate level of upper body strength, but the medical benefits of having the body upright again rather than sat down are tremendous.  Reports of better circulation leading to quicker healing times, less susceptibility to bladder infections due to less pressure and cramping, plus an overall well being of less aches and pains.  We think these have massive potential and are going to be watching progress with much interest.