Medical technology advancements make healing and recovery more effective for patients everywhere. The EksoNR, an upgrade to the EksoGT, creates advanced robot-assisted therapy practices for patients in rehabilitation. These exoskeletons for physical rehabilitation support patients' legs and bodies as they take steps early in the recovery process. At PAM Health, we use the EksoNR to improve patients' chances and speed of recovery while lessening the strain on therapists.
EksoNR exoskeleton therapy uses advanced technology to help patients take steps. With SmartAssist™ software, therapists can customize the motor controls, from full assistance to patient-initiated movements. Clinicians can also set goals and modify support during the therapy session based on patient needs.
The EksoNR monitors and regulates leg movement during use and controls balance, weight shifting and stepping in place. Along with postural alignment, the goal of the EksoNR is to assist in repetitive training and help the brain relearn skills lost as a result of an accident or stroke. With mobility encouraged early on in the recovery process, the skills are more likely to stick, leaving patients with improved gait and independence.
Plus, the EksoNR has resulted in significant improvements for patient psychology during recovery. Patients feel empowered and ready to dive into rehab sessions, which makes physical therapy easier for patients and clinicians.
In addition to the technical and emotional facets of EksoNR, early ambulation (walking with or without assistance) offers many benefits to the body and its recovery process. For more severe injuries, ambulation may not be possible independently, which is where the EksoNR can help. Taking steps early on can:
Patients who have experienced a stroke or spinal cord injury can benefit from exoskeleton rehabilitation therapy. Strokes and spinal cord injuries typically leave patients with reduced motor abilities since the body relies on the brain and spinal cord for movement. Depending on the severity of the stroke or injury, the possibility for walking long-term may be undetermined, but the EksoNR can encourage recovery and improve independence.
Dan Sill used exoskeleton technology at Alta Bates Hospital after his stroke and started walking on his own after 28 days of physical therapy. He felt that one of the most significant benefits of using the exoskeleton was feeling confident because he was no longer relying on his wheelchair.
After a boating accident, Sabrina McCoin sustained a spinal cord injury on the left side of her body. She tried other therapies like horseback riding to help recover her balance, but switched to the Ekso when she saw how much it improved her independence. The Ekso helps retrain her brain and reorient her balance, and it gives her hope for recovery.
PAM offers comprehensive therapy for patients recovering from strokes and spinal cord injuries. We strive to help our patients develop confidence and hope in their journey to recovery, and EksoNR exoskeleton technology supports that goal. Start by finding a location near you today.