Researchers at The University of Queensland are using wearable robotic exoskeletons to help people with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) walk further, faster and with more confidence.
The device, designed to enhance movement by providing assistance at the ankle joint, is being trialed as part of the iMOVE-MND project led by Associate Professor Taylor Dick from the School of Biomedical Sciences.
“We are seeing exoskeletons go from fiction to reality; our device consists of a small pack containing the ‘brain’, motors and batteries worn around the waist, with cables that transmit force to the ankles making it easier for a person to walk," Dr Dick said.
"A bit like adding an extra spring in your step. It’s lightweight, portable and untethered, so we can move beyond the lab and into the real world. We’re targeting the ankle joint based on our biomechanics research showing it plays a critical role in walking performance for people with MND.”
According to Dr. Dick, the primary goal of the device is to assist individuals living with Motor Neuron Disease (MND) in preserving their mobility for the maximum duration possible, reports The University of Queensland.
She explained that while most robotic exoskeletons are typically utilized in rehabilitation settings to gradually restore lost function, this project takes a different approach. The team aims to help patients sustain their ability to walk and remain independent as their condition advances.
As the first device of its type in Australia, it also marks a global milestone as the first trial involving participants with MND. Dr. Dick noted that the research team is particularly eager to evaluate the technology’s performance in everyday, real-world settings rather than limiting tests to a controlled laboratory environment.
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Dr Dick said the results so far had been impressive, with participants noticing an immediate improvement in mobility.
“We hear things within 5 minutes of wearing the device like: ‘I regained my confidence in walking’.”
Dr James Williamson, a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the School of Biomedical Sciences, is leading the technical development of the device.
“The exoskeleton uses sensors to detect force through the foot and applies mechanical assistance accordingly,” Dr Williamson said.
“A mini motor for each leg helps with plantarflexion and dorsiflexion, which means moving the leg up or down, and we apply that assistance for each and every step.”
The UQ Centre for Motor Neuron Disease (MND) Research was launched earlier this year – the first center to integrate discovery, translational, care and clinical trial research.
Dr Williamson said the goal of the exoskeleton was to increase the number of steps someone can take in a day while minimizing their fatigue.
“If we can help someone stay out of a wheelchair for a week, 2 weeks, a month, then that’s a massive win,” he said.
