“Back at the same level as everyone else”—user perspectives on walking with an exoskeleton, a qualitative study

This study explores the experiences of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) using the Ekso™ exoskeleton during rehabilitation. It uses qualitative interviews to understand their perspectives on standing and walking with the device. The research focuses on the emotional and physical aspects of using the exoskeleton, including feelings of freedom, control, and the impact on their sense of self and body image. The study highlights both the positive aspects, such as empowerment and improved physical sensations, and the challenges, like the realization of loss and the device's limitations in everyday life.

• 1
  Participants experienced largely positive emotions, such as empowerment and increased self-esteem, related to standing and walking with the exoskeleton, but none would trade it for their wheelchair.
• 2
  The use of the exoskeleton reactivated feelings of loss associated with their paralysis, as participants realized how much they missed being able to stand and walk independently.
• 3
  Participants described a tension between feeling free and restricted while using the exoskeleton, as the device provided stability but also felt tight and unnatural.