MEBSTER, a company that supports healthcare professionals in continuously improving services to clients
with physical disabilities, helps individuals build healthy habits and increase their quality of life, is the creator of the Unilexa exoskeleton.
Janské Lázně, which has long been dedicated to innovative approaches in client rehabilitation
with physical disabilities, created a study focused on the usability and safety of this mechanical exoskeleton Unilexa and the effectiveness of walking with this device.
The testing is being conducted under the supervision of physiotherapist Daniela Čornyjová and physiotherapist Tomáš Svoboda at the Janské Lázně Spa. Five selected clients with spinal cord injuries who use their own Unilex for training at home participated in the tests. A total of three measurements will be taken with a six-week break for home training. The results of the measurements and testing are recorded in the individual clients' worksheets. Among other things, the time needed is measured
to wear the exoskeleton and assess the degree of self-sufficiency.
The test protocol includes biomechanical measurements of walking, standing and sitting. After each test, the client fills out a questionnaire about the difficulty and any pain. During the training sessions, the level of assistance from a physiotherapist required to use the exoskeleton and the time it takes to put on and take off the exoskeleton independently are monitored. In the final phase of the study, the measurement results before and after the training part will be compared.
"Our intention is to be a helping force in this study. We participate in the preparation of trainings, provide exoskeletons and measuring equipment, including the equipment of the biomechanical laboratory, which was established in Janské Lázně. Our technician ensures the operation of the measuring equipment and data collection," said representatives of the MEBSTER company.
The study examines two main areas: usability and safety of the exoskeleton and walking efficiency
with this device. The primary goal of the study is to determine whether there are any negative effects during training when using Unilexa. The condition of the skin in contact with the exoskeleton is checked before and after each training session.
The second part of the study focuses on monitoring the effects of exoskeleton training on the user. Selected physiological parameters, such as densitometry, lung function and cardiovascular function while walking in the exoskeleton, are measured before and after the intervention. It also includes a biomechanical analysis of gait, which monitors body position, pelvic rotation and compensatory movements. Statistical significance tests will then evaluate the improvement of parameters during the intervention. Alternatively, the study can be linked to a parallel measurement of the effect of acupuncture on the rehabilitation process.
