Effects of training with the ReWalk exoskeleton on quality of life in incomplete spinal cord injury: a single case study

This study investigates whether using the ReWalk exoskeleton can improve the quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries. The ReWalk system uses electric motors at the knee and hip joints of the exoskeleton replace the step movements of the user. A 22-year-old male with a spinal cord injury at the Th11 level participated in the study for 7 months. The patient had suffered a traumatic SCI after a traffic accident one year earlier. The study found improvements in the patient's quality of life, mobility, balance, and bowel and bladder control. At the end of the studyperiod the patient was able to walk independently supervised by one person.

• 1
  The patient's physical functioning, physical role function, physical pain, general health, vitality and psychical well-being improved after training with the ReWalk exoskeleton.
• 2
  The ASIA motor function score improved from 52 to 54 points, and the patient regained partial control of bowel and bladder functions.
• 3
  The patient was able to walk independently (indoors and on level surfaces) supervised by one person, achieving a maximum walking distance of 500 m.