Neck Exoskeleton for ALS
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new powered neck exoskeleton for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The goal is to determine if the device aids head movement and user satisfaction. Participants will use the exoskeleton to perform tasks that mimic daily activities, while researchers track head movement and gather feedback. Individuals diagnosed with ALS and experiencing neck weakness might be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance daily life for ALS patients.
What prior data suggests that this neck exoskeleton is safe for ALS patients?
Research has shown that ALS patients have tolerated the powered neck exoskeleton well in previous studies. For instance, one study found that ALS patients using the exoskeleton relied less on their neck muscles, reducing the effort required when wearing the device. Another study highlighted that this exoskeleton restored about 70% of the neck's movement range, effectively supporting head movements.
Moreover, the exoskeleton significantly improved the condition of ALS patients with dropped head syndrome, where weak neck muscles cannot support the head. Patients using the device demonstrated better control of their head movements.
These findings suggest that the powered neck exoskeleton is safe and can enhance neck function in ALS patients.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike current treatments for ALS, which often focus on managing symptoms with medications and physical therapy, the powered neck exoskeleton offers a novel approach by physically supporting neck muscles weakened by the disease. This exoskeleton is designed to assist with head movements, potentially improving quality of life for those with ALS by enhancing mobility and reducing strain on the neck. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it directly addresses muscle weakness, offering a mechanical solution that could complement existing therapeutic strategies.
What evidence suggests that this neck exoskeleton is effective for ALS?
Research has shown that a powered neck exoskeleton can assist people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who struggle with head and neck movement. In this trial, participants will use the powered neck exoskeleton to evaluate its effectiveness. One study found that patients using the exoskeleton could better control their head and neck, reducing strain on their neck muscles. Another study showed that participants with head drop syndrome (where the head falls forward due to weak neck muscles) improved their head and neck movement. They also made fewer mistakes during movement tasks and felt less tired. These early findings suggest that the exoskeleton might help ALS patients by making it easier for them to move their heads in daily life.26789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants perform tasks using the neck exoskeleton, including computerized tracking tasks and simulated activities of daily living. Head-neck kinematics are recorded, and range of motion is computed.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for satisfaction and effectiveness of the neck exoskeleton after the intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Powered Neck Exoskeleton
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Utah
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Evaluation of a Structurally Suitable Neck Exoskeleton in ...
The investigators will evaluate a new powered neck exoskeleton in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to understand whether this device allows ...
Preliminary Study on Effects of Neck Exoskeleton Structural ...
Neck muscle weakness due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) can result in dropped head syndrome, adversely impacting the quality of life of those ...
Predicting Motor Intent from Residual Neck Muscle Activity in ...
The long-term goal of this work is to restore dexterous and intuitive head-neck motion to patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients Regain Head-Neck ...
A cross-sectional human study was conducted to validate a powered neck exoskeleton to assist with head-neck motions in five head drop patients.
5.
ctv.veeva.com
ctv.veeva.com/study/evaluation-of-a-structurally-suitable-neck-exoskeleton-in-patients-with-amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosiEvaluation of a Structurally Suitable Neck Exoskeleton in ...
The investigators will evaluate a new powered neck exoskeleton in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) to understand whether ...
Safety and efficacy of the Atalante exoskeleton in the ... - PMC
Robotic rehabilitation on locomotion is a new approach in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and previous studies showed its feasibility.
7.
journals.lww.com
journals.lww.com/ajpmr/fulltext/2025/08000/assistive_technology_in_als__a_scoping_review_of.15.aspxAssistive Technology in ALS: A Scoping Review of Devices...
This scoping review assesses the effectiveness of assistive technologies tested in people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
8.
biodesign.seas.harvard.edu
biodesign.seas.harvard.edu/sites/g/files/omnuum11441/files/2025-07/assistive_technology_in_als__a_scoping_review_of.15_0.pdfAssistive Technology in ALS - Harvard Biodesign Lab
This scoping re- view assesses the effectiveness of assistive technologies tested in people liv- ing with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, specifically those ...
9.
ece.utah.edu
ece.utah.edu/2024/12/17/helping-als-patients-regain-functional-head-neck-movements-via-neck-exoskeleton-technologies/Helping ALS Patients Regain Functional Head-Neck ...
New neck exoskeleton technologies aimed at helping ALS patients suffering from dropped head syndrome regain functional head-neck movements.
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