Since becoming part of the Totally Kids rehabilitation program, the EKSO Bionics Exoskeleton (EKSO) has made an impact in the lives of several of our patients by helping them recover from injuries or disorders that have affected their motor skills. The exoskeleton assists patients with paralysis or weakness in the lower extremities to stand and walk with very little help. A system of motors and sensors works along with the patient’s assistance to practice balance, positioning, and eventually walking. These exercises usually result in increased coordination, function, and independence.
Recently, Kaylee, one of our patients who used the exoskeleton as part of her acute therapy, experienced vast improvement in her recovery. After suffering an aneurysm that affected the right side of her body, Kaylee was not able to move her right leg. Early on, the therapy team used manual therapy to stimulate her leg muscles to achieve some movement. After 2 months of therapy, Kaylee began to have reflexive muscle movements, but was still not able to move her leg on her own.
The therapy team continued to work with Kaylee focusing on exercises that allowed her to build strength, such as standing from the sitting position, weight bearing, and weight shifting. Eventually, Kaylee worked on the parallel bars. There, she attempted to take a step with the physical therapist moving her right leg since she could not move it by herself. While on the parallel bars, the therapist did everything related to her right leg, including moving her foot forward as she would normally while taking a step, and locking her right knee while she stepped with her left leg.
Once Kaylee regained strength and trunk control, she began to use the exoskeleton. The therapy team alternated between continuing manual therapy and using the EKSO. The benefits brought about by the exoskeleton were evident in a short time. Kaylee began to be able to do things on her own she had not been able to do before. For example, while on the parallel bars, she became able to step with her left leg while holding her own weight on her right leg, and without a therapist locking her right knee for stability in stance.
She continued her therapy with the exoskeleton and so did her recovery. Kaylee became able to advance her right leg forward with support of the trunk for balance. That was a huge improvement when compared to what her situation was prior to using the exoskeleton. She began to walk using a hemi walker with the assistance of a person for safety and balance. The EKSO allowed her to experience a neuromuscular re-education—the weight bearing reignited her neuropathways—which resulted in the regaining of her motor skills.
Kaylee met her therapy goals, was discharged, and is now living at home with her family. She continues to walk with the help of the hemi walker. The exoskeleton made a marked difference in Kaylee’s recovery. We are grateful for the wonderful improvements the EKSO is allowing our patients to enjoy as part of their therapy. We look forward to continue helping many patients achieve and surpass their therapy goals with the use of this amazing therapy tool.