TIMES OF ISRAEL
by David Shamah
June 29, 2014

With the ReWalk exoskeleton system, paraplegics can move freely — and even run marathons

ReWalk, the Israeli-developed exoskeleton system that enables the paralyzed to walk, has been cleared for home use by the FDA, a key step toward supplying the device that has shown it can revolutionize the lives of war casualties and others who have lost the use of their legs.

Via computers and motion sensors, ReWalk controls movement using subtle changes in center of gravity, mimics natural gait and provides functional walking speed, enabling even paraplegics to move independently. They can even run marathons, as a paralyzed woman did in 2012. ReWalk allows independent, controlled walking similar to that of an able-bodied person. A forward tilt of the upper body triggers the first step and gets the system going. Once the wearer is in motion, the system continues to “walk” while the body or head move forward, in the same manner as an able-bodied person. There are several other exoskeleton systems in development, by ReWalk is the first to receive approval from the FDA, the US government agency that vets medicines and medical devices and allows them on the market.

While FDA approval is a vitally important step in the process, it does not lead to immediate marketing.

No date for that was given, and a price has not been established. The system has been extensively studied and tested in Israel, the US, and Europe. It is already in use by people around the world who participated in ReWalks’ beta program.

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http://www.timesofisrael.com/fda-oks-israeli-system-to-help-the-paralyzed-walk/