Clinician-Focused Overview of Bionic Exoskeleton Use After Spinal Cord Injury

Top Spinal Cord Inj Rehabil, 2017 · DOI: 10.1310/sci2303-234 · Published: July 1, 2017

Spinal Cord Injury Assistive Technology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries can limit upright activity, leading to medical issues. Bionic exoskeletons offer a way to address these issues by assisting with gait retraining. These devices are being used in rehabilitation for gait retraining and some are approved for home use, offering an alternative to wheelchairs. This article discusses currently available bionic exoskeletons, manufacturer guidelines, and potential benefits.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

111 participants across 14 studies (review)

Evidence Level

Review

Key Findings

1
Bionic exoskeletons can provide reciprocal stepping for individuals with SCI, but their ability to improve fitness and address secondary medical complications remains to be determined.
2
The energy cost of bionic ambulation varies, with some studies showing light to very light intensity exercise and others showing moderate intensity.
3
Gait speed improves with practice, lower injury level, and training time in the device.

Research Summary

Bionic exoskeletons offer potential benefits for individuals with spinal cord injuries by assisting with ambulation and reducing secondary medical complications. However, limitations such as cost, battery life, community barriers, and the need for upper extremity support restrict their widespread use. Future research should focus on improving system components, software enhancements, and determining the superiority of locomotor training strategies.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Settings

Bionic exoskeletons can be incorporated into rehabilitation programs for gait retraining and standing exercises.

Home and Community Use

Selected exoskeletons have FDA approval for home and community use, providing opportunities for increased independence.

Further Research

Continued research is needed to address limitations and optimize the use of bionic exoskeletons for individuals with SCI and other neurological disorders.

Clinician-Focused Overview of Bionic Exoskeleton Use After Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Settings

Home and Community Use

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Clinician-Focused Overview of Bionic Exoskeleton Use After Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Settings

Home and Community Use

Further Research

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?