Top of page
Technology

Wearable Robotic Exoskeleton Could Help People with Multiple Sclerosis

Young disable man in the robotic exoskeleton

UK scientists are to investigate whether wearable robots could help people with multiple sclerosis get more exercise.

Dr Siva Nair and his team at Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield will examine how powered exoskeletons – or robotic suits – might improve physical fitness in people with mobility issues caused by multiple sclerosis.

Research suggests people with MS should do moderate exercise for 30 minutes, three times a week. But many can find this difficult due to symptoms caused by the condition.

‘We all know how important exercise is,’ says Dr Nair. ‘A lack of it can cause heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and depression. So we need to find a way to make it easier for people with advanced multiple sclerosis to take part in physical activity. Robotics is the natural step forward. By embracing this technology we are giving people who can’t walk the chance to exercise like everyone else.

‘We understand it’s not every day you see someone in a robot suit, and society might need to adjust to such a weird and wonderful sight. That’s why we’re also going to be observing the personal implications of keeping fit in this way – including whether the person wearing the exoskeleton feels it’s an accepted way to exercise.’

You might also like

Close up hands typing laptop Close up hands typing laptop

Study reveals support needed for kids with disabilities using the web

Children with disabilities need better support to manage their online…

young blind woman with headphone using computer with refreshable braille display young blind woman with headphone using computer with refreshable braille display

Consultation to begin in Australia for Banking Accessibility Standards review

The Australian Banking Association (ABA) has engaged the Australian Network…

person taking picture with DSC-HX99 RNV Kit person taking picture with DSC-HX99 RNV Kit

Sony launches point-and-shoot camera for people with vision disabilities

Sony Electronics launches the DSC-HX99RNV kit, a new retinal projection…