Modern medical technology has developed to a point we never thought possible. One of the innovations creating hope for patients who have lost the ability to walk is the Exoskeleton, a robotic technology that helps in restoring movement and walking. For those looking for a new option in treating and restoring the condition of the body, this article will take you to an understanding of the technology of the future that is changing the field of rehabilitation medicine in Thailand.
What is an Exoskeleton?
Understanding the Exoskeleton helps us see more clearly the technology that will change the treatment and rehabilitation of patients, particularly those with problems of movement and walking.
The definition and meaning of Exoskeleton
An Exoskeleton is a robotic device worn outside the body, with a structure designed to support and assist the movement of the human being. The word "Exo" means "outside" and "skeleton" means the frame of bones, so that it can be translated as an "outside skeleton" whose function is to reinforce and support the movement of the human body.
The rehabilitation robot that helps train walking, or the Overground Wearable Exoskeleton, is a device worn on the patient's body, whose function is to support and reinforce stepping in the most correct and natural pattern possible. The sensors fitted all over the robot detect the movement and send the data back to the control system, allowing the physiotherapist to adjust the pattern of walking, the speed, and the supporting force to suit each individual patient in detail.
The principle by which the walking-assist robot works
The working system of the walking-assist robot, or gait-training robot, relies on modern engineering principles and technology. The device detects the signal from the muscle through sensors fitted on the skin, or from the movement of the joint. The computer system then processes this data and orders the motors to work, in order to help reinforce the movement the user wants.
This process takes place within a few milliseconds, so that the movement is smooth and natural. The system adjusts the level of assistance according to the capacity of each user. If the patient still has some strength in the muscle, the device gives only slight assistance; but if the patient is greatly impaired, the device gives more support in proportion.
The benefits of the Exoskeleton in medicine and physiotherapy
Bringing Exoskeleton technology into use in treating and rehabilitating patients has created an important change in the field of rehabilitation medicine, particularly in the group of patients once seen as unable to walk again. The benefits of this technology cover several groups of patients and have a clearly positive effect on the restoration of health.
The gait-training robot (Robotic Gait Training), the hope of patients
Being able to walk again after illness from stroke or injury of the spinal cord is one of the highest goals of rehabilitation. The Robotic Exoskeleton is an intelligent gait-training robotic technology that comes in as an important assistant in making that goal real and faster.
Gait training with a robot helps the patient begin training to walk sooner, increase the dose of training significantly, and stimulate the brain to learn and create new connections of the nervous system (Neuroplasticity). Repeating the same training again and again helps stimulate the nervous system to work and create new neural pathways, which is the key to restoring the ability to walk, because intensive rehabilitation in this group of patients is a dose-dependent treatment: the more it is done, the more is gained.
The rehabilitation of patients with stroke (Stroke)
Patients with stroke usually lose the ability to walk because of damage to the nervous system. Using the Exoskeleton in treating this group of patients has shown impressive results, helping the patient train to walk from the beginning of the rehabilitation, even while there is still weakness or an inability to control the leg fully.
This technology suits patients with stroke, those with injury of the spinal cord, patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), and those with problems of walking from other conditions of the nervous system. Research finds that patients trained with the Exoskeleton recover better than with traditional methods of rehabilitation alone.
Helping those with injury of the spinal cord (Spinal Cord Injury)
Patients with injury of the spinal cord usually lose the ability to move the legs and to walk. Using the Exoskeleton for this group of patients not only helps them walk, but also benefits their overall health, such as improving the circulation of the blood, preventing the wearing away of bone, and maintaining muscle mass.
Walking with the help of the Exoskeleton also helps reduce the arising of pressure sores, improves the working of the system of elimination, and helps the patient have a better quality of life. Many patients report feeling more confident and independent when they can stand and walk again.
Application in the group of older adults and those with other problems of movement
Older adults with problems of weakness of the muscle, degeneration of the knee joint, or finding their balance can also benefit from the Exoskeleton. This technology helps older adults maintain their independence in movement and reduce the risk of falling. Its use for this group usually emphasises supporting walking and maintaining balance, rather than full assistance.
Besides this, patients with degenerative conditions of the nervous system, such as Parkinson's disease, muscle weakness, or inflammation of the nerves, can also benefit from the Exoskeleton in treating and restoring the capacity for movement. Using this technology helps the patient train movement safely and effectively.
The use of the Exoskeleton innovation in Thailand
Thailand has begun to give more importance to Exoskeleton technology, particularly in the medical sector and in the rehabilitation of patients. Although this technology is still new for many people, the clearly visible benefits have led medical establishments and clinics to begin using it to help patients. The development and import of this technology is an important step in treatment and rehabilitation in Thailand.
PYONG Rehabilitation Clinic begins using the Exoskeleton
PYONG Rehabilitation Clinic is one of the few rehabilitation establishments in Thailand to have brought Overground Wearable Exoskeleton technology into use in treating and rehabilitating patients; among clinics it is considered the first and only clinic with this equipment. Run by specialist physicians in the field of rehabilitation medicine, the clinic is ready to offer holistic treatment covering diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Leading in the use of this Overground Wearable Exoskeleton technology allows patients with problems of movement and walking to receive treatment that is modern and effective at international level, particularly patients with stroke, injury of the spinal cord, patients with degenerative conditions of the nervous system, and older adults who have lost the ability to walk.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Understanding the Exoskeleton and its use in medicine usually comes with various doubts. These frequently asked questions will help those interested understand the possibilities and the limits of this technology better.
Whom does the Exoskeleton suit?
The Exoskeleton suits patients with problems of movement, such as patients with stroke, injury of the spinal cord, degenerative conditions of the nervous system, and older adults with weakness of the muscle. The assessment of suitability must be made by a specialist physician, considering the condition of the body, the capacity to learn, and the goals of rehabilitation of each individual patient.
Is training with a walking-assist robot safe?
Training with a walking-assist robot is considered very safe, since there is a support system preventing falls, safe straps, and sensors detecting emergency situations. Some patients may feel tired or achy after the training, which is normal and improves as the body adapts.
Are there limits to using the Exoskeleton?
The Exoskeleton has limits, such as patients whose weight is over the limit, severe problems of the skin, or problems of mind that make cooperation impossible. The price and the cost of the training may be high, access to the technology is still limited, and it takes a long time of training before a clear result is seen.
Summary of the article
The Exoskeleton is a robotic technology creating hope for patients with problems of movement. Its ability to help restore walking and movement has made this technology an important tool in treating patients with stroke, injury of the spinal cord, and other problems of the nervous system.
Thailand beginning to bring this technology into use, particularly in a specialist clinic such as PYONG Rehabilitation Clinic, is an important step that will help Thai patients reach modern and effective treatment. The gait-training robot not only helps in rehabilitation, but also gives hope and confidence back to the patient and the family.
Those interested in Exoskeleton technology can consult the team of specialist physicians at no cost, in order to assess its suitability and plan suitable treatment.
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