We are delighted to share that Hobbs Rehabilitation is collaborating with ABLE Human Motion to integrate, for the first time in the UK, the ABLE Exoskeleton into our rehabilitation treatment programs. This cutting-edge neurotechnology is designed to enhance mobility and support rehabilitation for individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries at levels C5 to L5, and other conditions that affect movement.
By combining advanced robotics with personalised care, the ABLE Exoskeleton offers a new level of independence, helping patients regain strength, confidence, and the ability to move more freely.
Hobbs Rehabilitation is the first rehabilitation centre to have the ABLE Exoskeleton. We will be providing this treatment at our new, state-of-the-art Chedington Centre, as well as in Hobbs Rehabilitation Winchester, and for our team at Oaksey House.
Exciting news coming soon! Starting late March, you’ll have the chance to experience the cutting-edge ABLE Exoskeleton with FREE trials at Chedington! Don’t miss out – register your interest now and be among the first to try it!
What is the ABLE Exoskeleton?
The ABLE Exoskeleton, developed by ABLE Human Motion, is an adjustable robotic exoskeleton designed to assist individuals with spinal cord injuries or gait abnormalities in rehabilitation, aiming to help support the movement of legs independently.
“We are very excited because it’s a device we can use for various conditions because it has been designed so well. It has not just functional benefits but long-term benefits, such as bladder and bowl function, cardiovascular health, spasticity, and flexibility.” – Louis Martinelli, Specialist Neurological Physiotherapist and Exoskeleton Practitioner at Hobbs Rehabilitation
The exoskeleton will provide enormous rehabilitation progress for patients with different conditions at our centres; offering both immediate support for daily activities, and long-term benefits.
“By collaborating closely with hundreds of physicians, therapists and patients, we developed the ABLE Exoskeleton – a lightweight, quick to adjust and accessible device for neurorehabilitation that incorporates the latest advancements in robotics, electric motors, manufacturing and wireless connectivity to enhance patient outcomes and promote neuroplasticity.” – Alfons Carnicero, CEO of ABLE Human Motion
Incorporating testing with over 200 clinicians and patients, the ABLE Exoskeleton has been designed with a range of revolutionary features to support the rehabilitation of individuals with spinal cord injuries and problems with gait.
- Lightweight: Enables therapists to place the exoskeleton on the patient body more effectively
- Adjustable: Can be easily personalised to every individuals’ needs
- Smooth Walking Pattern: Specialist technology that drives the exoskeleton to mimic natural walking patterns to promote brain and muscle functions
- Turning Assistance: Helps individuals navigate tight spaces, such as hallways, with ease and precision
Designing with Patients in Mind
The ABLE Exoskeleton offers crucial benefits for neurological rehabilitation, especially for those with mobility impairments and spinal cord injuries. It boosts mobility, allowing users to stand, walk, and complete daily activities like moving around the home or even kicking a ball, all with greater independence.
At Hobbs Rehabilitation, we’re always seeking innovative ways to enhance our patients’ rehabilitation, so we’re excited to introduce the ABLE Exoskeleton at some of our centres. Its adjustable features allow our therapists to integrate the neurotechnology device into personalised treatment plans within our multidisciplinary therapy, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and vestibular rehabilitation.
The Freedom Eurostars Project
The Freedom Eurostars Project is set to make history as the first exoskeleton specifically designed for people living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). This groundbreaking project brings together experts from The MiNT Academy, Hobbs Rehabilitation, Tech2People in Austria, and ABLE Human Motion.
The collaboration aims to address the unique needs of those with MS, a neurological condition often marked by muscle spasticity, fatigue, and decreased mobility. By combining advanced robotics with personalised care, this Freedom Exoskeleton offers a new level of independence, helping patients regain strength, confidence, and the ability to move more freely.
In Autumn 2024, the ABLE Human Motion team visited Hobbs Rehabilitation Winchester for demonstrations, giving our patients the chance to try the exoskeleton. Working with Clinical Specialists Louis and Kirsty, the team gathered valuable insights, with patients showing strong interest and enthusiasm for its potential benefits. These sessions will help refine the exoskeleton to better address MS symptoms like spasticity and fatigue, while making it more user-friendly with customisable adjustments for individual needs.
“It was amazing to watch how Louis and Kirsty were able to use the ABLE Exoskeleton to train balance and weight shifting, gait training, and transitions from sit to stand. They seamlessly adapted the device to the needs of each individual patient across a range of pathologies. Days like that give me so much motivation that we are building a tool that can really make a difference to therapists and patients!” – Katlin, Product Manager at ABLE Human Motion
A New Era in MS Rehabilitation
The vision for the ABLE Exoskeleton goes beyond improving mobility alone. We aim to give clinicians a powerful new tool that can deliver more effective and personalised treatment for people with spinal cord injuries and mobility impairments. Through this cutting-edge technology, we hope to provide individuals with greater independence, reduce their physical burden, and enhance their day-to-day quality of life.
By pioneering an exoskeleton also uniquely designed for MS, the Freedom Eurostars Project is poised to make a significant impact on the future of neuro-rehabilitation and contribute to meaningful advancements in the field of MS treatment.
For more information on the ABLE Exoskeleton, contact [email protected]