Qld researchers trial revolutionary exoskeleton allowing MND patients to walk further

Scientists have developed revolutionary ankle-powered exoskeletons that could dramatically extend walking ability for people facing the devastating progression of motor neurone disease.

The exoskeleton giving MND patients mobility. Picture: University of Queensland

Exoskeletons have moved from movie fantasy to medical reality as Queensland researchers are the first in the world to trial the robotic devices to help patients with motor neurone disease walk further, faster and with more confidence.

The wearable apparatus is designed to enhance movement at the ankle joint powered by the “brain” — a small pack of motors and batteries worn around the waist.

The cutting edge technology is being trialled as part of the iMOVE-MND project led by Associate Professor Taylor Dick from the School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Queensland.

“It’s lightweight, portable and untethered, so we can move beyond the lab and into the real world,” Dr Dick said.

“We’re targeting the ankle joint based on our biomechanics research showing it plays a critical role in walking performance for people with MND.”

Tom Cruise wears an exoskeleton in Edge of Tomorrow.

The researcher said the device was intended to help people with MND maintain mobility for as long as possible.

“Most robotic exoskeletons are used in rehabilitation to restore function over time. We wanted to use it differently, to help people maintain walking function and independence as the disease progresses,” she said.

“The device is the first of its kind in Australia and it’s a world-first to trial it on participants with MND.

“We’re excited to be testing the technology in real world environments, not just in the lab.”

Dr Dick said the results so far had been impressive with participants noticing an immediate improvement in mobility.

“We hear things within five minutes of wearing the device like, ‘I regained my confidence in walking’,” he said.

Matt Damon wears an exoskeleton in Elysium.

School of Biomedical Sciences postdoctoral research fellow James Williamson 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.”

Dr Williamson said feedback from trial participants had been overwhelmingly positive.

“When someone gets the exoskeleton on for the first time, you see their face change,” he said.

The team is working on a second-generation version of the device, with improved sensors and machine learning to personalise assistance.

Dr Williamson said the goal of the exoskeleton was to increase the number of steps someone can take in a day while minimising their fatigue.

“If we can help someone stay out of a wheelchair for a week, two weeks, a month, then that’s a massive win.”

The iMOVE-MND project is recruiting participants. Email Dr Dick

Originally published as Qld researchers trial revolutionary exoskeleton allowing MND patients to walk further