Title :
A bio-robotic leg orthosis for rehabilitation and mobility enhancement
Author :
Horst, Robert W.
Author_Institution :
Tibion Corp., Moffett Field, CA, USA
Abstract :
This paper describes a wearable powered leg orthosis that includes a high-torque actuator, electronics, sensors, and embedded firmware. The device provides multiple modes of operation including automatic assistance, manual assistance, continuous passive motion and robotic therapy. Patients affected by neurological conditions including stroke, MS, and Parkinson´s disease may benefit from robotic therapy and from the improved mobility provided by this portable, lightweight device. A preliminary study of chronic stroke patients has shown retained improvement in walking speed for patients undergoing rehabilitation with the device.
Keywords :
biomechanics; medical disorders; medical robotics; neurophysiology; orthotics; patient rehabilitation; patient treatment; automatic assistance; bio-robotic leg orthosis; chronic stroke; continuous passive motion; lower-limb active orthoses; manual assistance; mobility enhancement; neurology; patient rehabilitation; robotic therapy; wearable powered leg orthosis; Biomechanics; Equipment Design; Humans; Leg; Orthotic Devices; Robotics;
Conference_Titel :
Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, 2009. EMBC 2009. Annual International Conference of the IEEE
Conference_Location :
Minneapolis, MN
Print_ISBN :
978-1-4244-3296-7
Electronic_ISBN :
1557-170X
DOI :
10.1109/IEMBS.2009.5333581
