A patient at Movex Clinics undergoes robotic neurorehabilitation therapy using the innovative HANK exoskeleton from Gogoa Mobility Robots.
Delve into his rehabilitation story
Multiple sclerosis (MS), a progressive neurological disorder that affects patients' mobility and quality of life, is finding new hope in robotic exoskeletons. These innovative devices are transforming locomotor training, offering a promising solution to overcome gait dysfunction and prevent the loss of walking ability.
At the forefront of this revolution are the robotic exoskeletons developed by Gogoa, leaders in the creation and commercialization of innovative devices for neurorehabilitation. These exoskeletons are being successfully used in the rehabilitation programs of Movex Clinics, a network of clinics specializing in robotic neurorehabilitation with centers in Bilbao and Urretxu.
The exoskeletons have received approval from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for use in the rehabilitation of patients with lower limb mobility problems. Pilot clinical trials have confirmed their safety and feasibility, demonstrating progression in training and improvements in gait and mobility even after the program's completion.
Dr. Francois Bethoux, MD, chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Cleveland Clinic and principal investigator on one of the studies, emphasizes the importance of exoskeletons in treatment: “The exoskeleton has become an integral part of treatment for achieving better outcomes, especially when patients have difficulty walking or fully exercising their legs. Our goal is to make walking easier for the patient, even when they are not wearing the device.”
HANK, the lower limb exoskeleton from GOGOA used at Movex Clinics, stimulates neural memory and restores muscle control. Guided by trained physical therapists, it adjusts to the patient’s body and uses battery-powered motors to generate precise joint movements, providing support and balance during rehabilitation.
Maribel, an MS patient at Movex Clinics Bilbao, is a success story. After completing 24 training sessions over eight weeks, she experienced a significant improvement in her posture and gait. The physical therapists also noted remarkable improvements in her gait, adapting the exoskeleton to provide greater support to her weaker leg and retraining her to adopt a proper walking pattern.
Several clinical trials have demonstrated that exoskeleton rehabilitation improves walking ability, balance, and gait speed. Objective tests, such as the 10-meter walk test and the Timed Up and Go test, have confirmed the effectiveness of robotic neurorehabilitation with exoskeletons. Furthermore, an improvement in patients' mental well-being has been observed, demonstrating the holistic benefits of this innovative therapy.
Dr. G.E. Francisco, co-author of one of the trials, concludes: “Gait training with exoskeletons is not only feasible, but it can also improve gait efficiency in people with MS. We have observed an improvement in gait speed associated with lower metabolic expenditure, likely due to better neuromotor coordination. We must continue working on integrating exoskeletons into the ongoing MS rehabilitation process.”
Furthermore, exoskeletons have proven more effective than wheelchairs in improving cardiovascular function. Patients exercise at a moderate intensity, offering a more active and challenging rehabilitation experience.
Robotic neurorehabilitation, powered by Gogoa exoskeletons and Movex Clinics therapies, opens a promising future in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions. Testimonials from patients like Maribel, supported by physicians and physical therapists, confirm the positive results and the impactful transformation that can be achieved with this innovative therapy. Every step taken with these devices brings patients closer to regaining their mobility, independence, and quality of life, making the fight against multiple sclerosis more promising and exciting than ever.