A wheelchair user from Co Down recently shared his remarkable experience with a robotic exoskeleton, describing it as 'incredible' due to the newfound awareness of movement and sensation it provided him. This revelation comes in light of a recent study conducted by researchers at Dublin City University (DCU), which highlights that for individuals who have used these devices long-term, the emotional and social advantages are just as crucial as the physical improvements.
Robotic exoskeletons are innovative wearable devices that function as an external skeleton, designed to assist individuals with chronic paralysis. They offer power support that enables users to stand and walk, thereby enhancing mobility and reducing the risk of secondary health issues commonly faced by those who rely solely on wheelchairs.
Wayne Garrett, a 39-year-old man who has been using a wheelchair full-time since suffering a spinal cord injury in a motorcycle accident in 2016, has been participating in the DCU exoskeleton program since 2019. He recounted how, following his accident, he endured severe muscle spasms, but found significant relief through the use of the exoskeleton. In fact, he noted that he feels less dependent on medication now, thanks to the benefits of walking with the device.
"What’s incredible is that I went from having no sensation in my legs to now experiencing an awareness of movement and even some sensation when I'm using the device," he expressed. For Wayne, being able to stand and walk again with the exoskeleton has brought him the closest feeling to normalcy since his accident.
Exoskeletons represent a significant investment, costing between €50,000 and €200,000 each. During a typical session at DCU, users spend around an hour with 30 to 40 minutes dedicated to walking.
The research, published in the international journal Disability and Rehabilitation, was carried out by the dedicated team behind the DCU Exoskeleton Programme. The study focused on understanding the perspectives of expert users—individuals who have completed more than 24 sessions with the device.
Ronan Langan, the researcher and head of the program, emphasized that the findings reveal the impact of robotic exoskeleton walking transcends mere physical capabilities. The most significant outcome noted was the profound psychological benefit and the restoration of a sense of normalcy among users.
Langan further explained that the results indicate that regular engagement in exoskeleton walking motivates users to adopt healthier lifestyles, encouraging them to maintain good physical condition outside of their sessions. This holistic approach underscores the importance of both mental and physical health in the rehabilitation process.
