Exoskeleton for Paraplegia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to observe how individuals who already use exoskeletons manage daily activities at home. Researchers seek to identify which tasks can be accomplished with the exoskeleton and determine small modifications that could make its use easier and more independent. As a pilot study, it serves as a preliminary test to assess the feasibility of a larger study. Suitable participants are those already trained to use an exoskeleton independently for daily activities. As an unphased study, this trial offers participants the chance to contribute to pioneering research that could improve daily living for exoskeleton users.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on observing exoskeleton use at home, so it's likely you can continue your medications, but you should confirm with the trial organizers.
What prior data suggests that this exoskeleton is safe for users?
Research shows that exoskeletons can be safe to use, but some risks exist. Studies have found that an ill-fitting or unexpectedly moving exoskeleton can be dangerous. A poor fit might cause awkward positions, leading to shoulder or back strain.
However, proper training and adjustments can enhance safety. Ensuring a good fit and wearing protective gear are important steps to reduce risks. While these issues have been noted, the findings suggest that with the right precautions, exoskeletons can be safely used in daily activities.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using exoskeletons at home because they offer a new way for people with mobility challenges to perform everyday activities, such as cooking or cleaning, at eye level rather than wheelchair height. Unlike standard treatments that mainly rely on physical therapy and mobility aids like wheelchairs, exoskeletons provide a more dynamic support system that enables users to stand and move more naturally. This approach not only improves the user's physical capabilities but also enhances their independence and quality of life by allowing them to engage more fully in daily activities.
What evidence suggests that this exoskeleton is effective for improving independence in daily activities?
This trial will focus on participants who currently use exoskeletons. Studies have shown that exoskeletons can significantly improve movement. For example, using an active exoskeleton like HAL increased walking distance by 77.8% in a 6-minute walking test. Exoskeletons also enhance balance and simplify everyday tasks. Research indicates that these devices can reduce physical strain and fatigue, making daily activities less tiring. Overall, exoskeletons boost independence by providing extra strength and stamina.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Sue Dahl-Popolizio, DBH
Principal Investigator
A. T. Still University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Home Visit and Initial Assessment
Participants are observed in their home environment to determine the activities of daily living (ADLs) they can complete with the exoskeleton. The environment is adjusted as necessary, and baseline outcome measures are collected.
Remote Monitoring
Participants complete outcome measures remotely at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post-initial home visit to assess changes in pain, quality of life, and task performance.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for long-term changes in their ability to perform ADLs and overall satisfaction with exoskeleton use.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Exoskeleton
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
This study includes patients who are current exoskeleton users. Exoskeleton users will engage in normal activities of daily living (ADLs) that they currently perform at wheelchair level while using the exoskeleton. Researchers will observe the ADLs the exoskeleton users are and are not able to complete while using their exoskeleton.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
A.T. Still University of Health Sciences
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Actively Controlled Exoskeletons Show Improved Function ...
On average, the active exoskeleton HAL, showed improvements of 77.8% in the 6MWT and 90.5% in the 10MWT. The passive exoskeletons on average ...
Exoskeleton Use With In Home Functional Activities
The purpose of this study is to observe current exoskeleton users in their home environment to determine the activities of daily living (ADLs) they are able ...
Exoskeleton technology in nursing practice
The review focuses on the reduction of physical strain and fatigue, improved posture and body mechanics, enhanced patient care, usability and ...
4.
researchgate.net
researchgate.net/publication/380268664_Exoskeletons_for_Elderly_Activity_of_Daily_Living_Assistance_A_Review_of_Upper_Limb_Exoskeletons_and_AssessmentsExoskeletons for Elderly Activity of Daily Living Assistance
Exoskeletons have the potential to assist the elderly in daily tasks, improve mobility and balance, and provide additional strength, endurance, ...
Exoskeleton technology in nursing practice: assessing ...
The effectiveness of exoskeletons in reducing physical strain and fatigue among nurses is supported by evidence showing decreased muscle ...
Exoskeletons: Contribution to Occupational Health and Safety
This review aims to characterize the current landscape of exoskeletons designed to promote medical care and occupational safety in industrial settings.
Exoskeletons and Occupational Health Equity
Poor fitting exoskeleton suits can cause awkward working postures and thus, increase the risk of shoulder/back fatigue or disorders [19]. Poor ...
8.
jneuroengrehab.biomedcentral.com
jneuroengrehab.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12984-023-01191-yRelevance of hazards in exoskeleton applications: a survey ...
Our results identified a list of relevant hazards for exoskeletons. Among them, misalignments and unintended device motion were perceived as key ...
Controlling safety and health challenges intrinsic in ...
This paper presents research aimed at developing insights needed to control safety risks associated with exoskeleton (wearable robot) use across three ...
Back to Basics: The Safety Benefits of Exoskeletons
Train workers in safe exoskeleton use. · Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE). · Adjust the exoskeleton to the proper fit for the user.
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