Effects of Wearable Powered Exoskeletal Training on Functional Mobility, Physiological Health and Quality of Life in Non-ambulatory Spinal Cord Injury Patients

This study investigated the use of a new wearable exoskeleton (H-MEX) to help people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) walk. The study aimed to see if the exoskeleton could improve their mobility, health, and quality of life. Participants trained with the H-MEX for 10 weeks, and researchers measured their walking ability, physiological health (like lung function and bone density), and quality of life through questionnaires. The results showed that the exoskeleton is safe and helps SCI patients walk better. Some improvements in health and quality of life were also seen, suggesting the H-MEX could be a useful tool for rehabilitation.

• 1
  Participants significantly improved their walking distance in the 6-minute walking test (6MWT) after training with the H-MEX.
• 2
  The time required to stand up, walk 3 meters, and sit down in the timed-up-and-go test (TUGT) also showed significant improvement after the training.
• 3
  Although not statistically significant, some participants showed clinically meaningful improvements in spasticity, pulmonary function, bone mineral density, and bowel function.