ReWalk’s Newest Technology is Allowing Paralyzed People to Walk

ReWalk Robotics, a medical device company designing, developing and commercializing exoskeletons that allow wheelchair-bound individuals with mobility impairments or other medical conditions to stand and walk again, released a statement last week announcing the launch of ReWalk 6.0 – the company’s sixth generation personal system for home and community use.

According to ReWalk’s website, their 6.0 system is the most researched exoskeleton and clinical studies (presented at 2014 AAPM&R Annual Assembly- Exoskeletal- Assisted Walking for Spinal Cord Injury) have shown that the standing and movement this technology allows provides potential health benefits including improved bladder and bowel function, improved mental health, better sleep and less fatigue, improved posture and balance, and decreased body fat and pain.

The design consists of a battery-powered, wearable exoskeleton with motors at the hip and knee joints. Movement is controlled by subtle changes in the users’ center of gravity. The design can also be customized to provide optimal fit for each client, and its user interface allows therapists to enter various parameters to further customize and patient’s therapy and training.

This technology comes with a hefty price tag, however. According to ReWalk’s website, it will help customers seek reimbursement – but the initial price tag of $77,000 could make it cost prohibitive for some. Regardless, this system is a solid “step” in providing freedom to many who’s only other option for mobility previously was a wheelchair.