Robotic Legs Help Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Learn to Walk Again
So far, outcomes for MS are extremely promising, and HAL has a bright future
Generally, patients with spinal cord injuries can train with HAL therapy for 3 months, up to 5 times per week. Recent studies have shown that during this time, the leg muscles are built up, walking speed is improved, and the person feels steadier. Additional improvements include strengthened muscles, improved skin sensation, reduced spasticity, and alleviated neuropathic pain.
HAL therapy has the potential to strengthen neurological circuits, thereby improving an individual’s mobility and reducing the need for assistance from the device or other mobility aids.
Researchers are hopeful that in the very near future, this technology will prove to be effective in helping people with MS greatly improve mobility.
References
http://walk-again.com/hal-therapy/
https://www.swedish.org/blog/2016/09/ms-center-studies-new-technology-to-help-people-walk
http://komonews.com/news/healthworks/robotic-legs-help-patients-learn-to-walk-again
https://www.cyberdyne.jp/english/products/HAL/
https://www.cyberdyne.jp/english/products/supporting.html
