Technology Against Limitations: Robots and Artificial Intelligence in Rehabilitation

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Modern medicine is experiencing a genuine revolution with the integration of robotic technologies. The rapid advancement of engineering and software has ushered in a new era of rehabilitation across various fields of medicine. Today, robotic rehabilitation can improve patients’ quality of life even in the most complex cases that were considered hopeless just a few years ago.

What is robotic rehabilitation?

Robotic rehabilitation involves using advanced devices and technologies that help patients regain lost bodily functions. These include robotic trainers, exoskeletons, systems incorporating virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI). Unlike traditional methods, these devices can deliver more complex, precise, and individually tailored rehabilitation programs.

Where Robotic Rehabilitation is Used

Robotic technologies are used in a wide range of medical fields. However, they are most commonly used in the following areas:

1. Neurology
   Robotic devices are actively used to restore motor functions in patients with central and peripheral nervous system disorders. For example, stroke patients benefit from devices that help them regain control of their movements, normalize balance, and improve coordination. Robotic trainers and exoskeletons assist in partial or complete movement recovery for individuals with severe spinal cord injuries.
2. Orthopedics and Traumatology
   Robotic rehabilitation can safely and effectively restore motor skills after fractures, spinal and joint surgeries, joint replacements, and other injuries.
3. Cardiology
   These systems help patients regain physical activity after cardiovascular surgeries such as bypass surgery, heart valve replacement, or heart attack (myocardial infarction).
4. Pediatrics
   Robotic rehabilitation helps children with cerebral palsy, congenital, or acquired motor impairments, facilitating faster adaptation to daily life.

Thanks to the active implementation of innovative technologies, scientists and physicians have developed numerous high-precision devices that are groundbreaking in rehabilitation. These tools not only simplify the recovery process but also make it more comfortable, effective, and accessible for patients with the most complex diagnoses.

Exoskeletons

Exoskeletons are high-tech wearable devices that support the human body and assist with movements such as walking, standing up, and even climbing stairs. Modern exoskeletons are equipped with sensors, motors, and microprocessors, all integrated into a complex system.

These devices are used in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological and orthopedic disorders, including the effects of stroke, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy. They are also employed for recovery from injuries and surgeries affecting the musculoskeletal system.

In 2021, the journal Frontiers in Neurorobotics published clinical research results on the use of exoskeletons for motor function recovery in patients with spinal cord injuries. Participants training with exoskeletons showed a 60% improvement in lower limb control and a 45% reduction in muscle spasticity. Additionally, 70% of patients showed overall improvements in functional condition, including better walking stability and circulation. This study demonstrated that even in severe cases, regular use of exoskeletons can significantly enhance rehabilitation outcomes.

In Germany’s Munich clinic, unique HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) exoskeletons are used for spinal injury rehabilitation. These exoskeletons detect nerve signals sent from the brain to the muscles, aiding patients in movement and making rehabilitation more natural.

In South Korea, the innovative WalkON Suit F1 exoskeleton was recently introduced. It enables individuals with lower limb impairments to walk again, overcome obstacles, and even climb stairs. This robot weighs just 50kg and features a motorised system that mimics joint movements. A unique feature of the exoskeleton is that it can drive up to a person in a wheelchair, fixate on the body and help them stand up. Built-in sensors ensure balance and anticipate user movements, making the process as comfortable as possible.

The WalkON Suit F1 is also equipped with cameras that analyze the environment, recognize stair heights, and avoid obstacles, ensuring user safety. This exoskeleton has already demonstrated its capabilities in international competitions, tested by one of its developers, Kim Seung-Hwan. This technology opens up new opportunities for individuals with disabilities, restoring mobility and significantly improving their quality of life.

Robotic Walking Trainers

Robotic walking trainers, such as the Lokomat, hold a key place in modern rehabilitation of patients with mobility impairments. These complex systems help restore walking skills by simulating natural movements. Their primary advantage lies in their ability to adapt to the patient’s physical condition, activating proper movement patterns.

Trainers are actively used in rehabilitation for stroke patients, spinal cord injuries, amputations, neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis), and other conditions that impair walking. They also help people with congenital musculoskeletal abnormalities such as cerebral palsy.

One of the most popular robotic trainers, the Lokomat, is used in leading European clinics, such as the Malcherhof Baden rehabilitation center in Austria. Here, patients with lower limb paralysis can regain their walking abilities using the device, which keeps the body upright and safely trains leg movements.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual reality (VR) is a cutting-edge robotic rehabilitation method that creates interactive digital environments for therapeutic exercises. Patients immerse themselves in VR, where, under professional guidance, they perform movements to restore their physical and cognitive functions. VR systems feature sensors and specialized software, making rehabilitation not only effective but also engaging.

VR is used in the rehabilitation of patients with various conditions, such as strokes, traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and orthopedic pathologies. It is also employed in post-surgery recovery for musculoskeletal conditions, chronic pain management, and anxiety disorders.

The Charité clinic in Berlin is a leader in using VR for rehabilitation. Its programs allow stroke patients to train arm and leg movements in a safe and motivating environment. One successful program, VR Mirror Therapy, helps patients overcome the “neglected limb” effect after paralysis.

VR is particularly promising in pediatric rehabilitation. Young patients achieve excellent results through game-like exercises, which motivate them to actively participate in recovery. Research shows that children undergoing VR rehabilitation improve motor and cognitive skills 20–30% faster compared to traditional methods. Virtual games and simulations make sessions enjoyable, reducing stress and increasing engagement.

Rehabilitation Robots for Upper Limbs

Robotic systems for upper limb rehabilitation assist in regaining arm and shoulder functions. These devices are equipped with sensors, motorized components, and software that enable precise exercises with adjustable resistance and load.

Robots can both assist movement and create resistance to strengthen muscles.
These devices are widely used in rehabilitation following strokes, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, as well as conditions like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease. They help patients relearn fine motor skills, improve movement coordination, and regain upper limb strength.

In Israel’s Sheba Medical Center, the InMotion ARM robot is used for patients recovering from shoulder injuries or elbow surgeries. This system helps restore mobility and precision in movements, with the unique feature of incorporating game-like training to reduce patient stress.

Robotic Rehabilitation: The Future of Medicine

Robotic rehabilitation is the future of medicine that is already becoming reality. These technologies are actively used in leading clinics worldwide, helping patients regain lost mobility, confidence, and joy in life. With their adaptability and high effectiveness, robotic rehabilitation opens new horizons in treating the most complex conditions, making the impossible possible.

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The text has been verified

Reviewed and verified by: Marianna Sharypova, certified physician, Medical Director of HMS, with 20 years of experience in medical tourism.

Author: Nina Afrosina, MD