Difficulties with balance, standing and walking are a common symptom of many neurological and musculoskeletal problems. At ANAPLASI we use a new generation lightweight exoskeleton, in our rehabilitation program for the lower limbs. It can be worn quickly, supporting the patient’s weight and using motors in the joints allows the patient to walk. Suddenly, the patient feels more independent as he is able to move around freely at his own pace.
In ANAPLASI, the exoskeleton is used by a team of specially trained therapists and like all rehabilitation equipment, it is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive rehabilitation program. It is useful in both acute and chronic conditions.
Acute neurological diseases.
In patients with acute spinal cord or brain injuries, such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and spinal cord injuries, where patients have difficulty walking or cannot walk at all, the exoskeleton has multiple functions to improve recovery.
- Balance in the upright position. Anyone who has seen a newborn baby kick strongly but not walk until one year of age will understand that walking is a more complex process than simple muscle strength. The exoskeleton keeps the patient in a standing position even when there is complete paralysis of the legs, so the patient learns again to balance while standing.
- Stimulating the nervous system to relearn walking. Just as we memorize facts through repetition, repetitive limb movement encourages neurons in the brain and spinal cord to relearn the ability to walk, a process known as plasticity. By mimicking the natural gait pattern, the exoskeleton encourages the patient to passively but intensively repeat the movements of walking. This stimulates the reprogramming of their nervous system and accelerates their recovery.
- Strengthening muscles and mobilizing joints. The exoskeleton can be programmed to provide variable assistance to each leg individually. This can be reduced as the patient regains strength or increased if the patient is tired.
- There are specific exercises for strengthening specific muscle groups.
- The movement of the joints maintains range of motion.
Chronic Neurological Problems
For the wheelchair- bound patient, there are many benefits to a period of exercise in the standing position:
- It stimulates the cardiovascular system,
- strengthens the bones in the lower extremities,
- and mobilizes the joints to prevent contractures.
All of this can be achieved with the exoskeleton while taking an enjoyable stroll!
Home Use Training
Anaplasi provides a comprehensive training program for those considering purchasing an exoskeleton for home use.
