Robotics and exoskeletons recommended in latest NICE Guidelines

The latest NICE Guidelines have been released for rehabilitation for chronic neurological disorders including acquired brain injury, with robotics, exoskeletons and functional electrical stimulation being recognised as key components for evidence-based rehabilitation. Click here to read the report.

(Image: The LokomatPro in the Acute Stroke Unit at University Hospitals Dorset)

1.16 Stability, mobility and limb function

1.16.1 If the person has problems with stability, mobility, or upper or lower limb function, work with them to develop specific and targeted training and exercises. This may include:

functional activity including task-based training
gait training, for example, treadmill gait training, with or without body weight support
balance exercises, for example, core stability exercises and perturbation-based balance training
exercises involving sensorimotor tasks
wheelchair skills training
use of robotics, an exoskeleton, or a combined approach (where available)
hydrotherapy (where available)
exercise and training delivered through play therapy (for children)

1.16.3 Think about using gaming modalities or virtual reality to help the person engage with training and exercises to improve stability, mobility or limb function.

(Image: The ArmeoSpring Pro in the Acute Neurorehabilitation Unit at the Wellington Hospital)

1.16 Treadmill gait training

1.16.9 When planning treadmill gait training, take into account that it may also improve the person’s exercise capacity during the training period and motivate them to be physically active over the longer term.

1.16.10 If the person has a progressive neurological condition, think about low- or intermediate-frequency treadmill gait training over a longer period to optimise their mobility and exercise capacity.

1.16.11 Consider robot-assisted treadmill gait training where this equipment is available to further improve mobility and exercise capacity.

1.16.12 When stopping supervised treadmill gait training, support the person to maintain their exercise capacity, as appropriate.

(Image: The C-Mill treadmill in The Sir Jules Thorn Centre for Co-Creation of Rehabilitation Technology at the University of Strathclyde)

1.16 Electrical stimulation

1.16.13 Consider neuromuscular electrical stimulation in addition to muscle strengthening exercise and functional activity.

1.16.14 If the person has muscle weakness of the lower limbs, caused by an upper motor neurone lesion, consider functional electrical stimulation in addition to gait training.

(Image: The ROBERT® lower limb mobilisation robot with EMG-triggered Functional Electrical Stimulation)

What does this mean for rehabilitation?

The latest guidelines from NICE offers permission, and the opportunity, for clinicians to use robotics wherever this technology helps meet meaningful rehabilitation goals. Furthermore, robotics can be integrated into broader, person-centred programmes, in addition to carefully selecting patients and providing expert supervision.

These recommendations also support investment in robotic and exoskeleton technology, wherever value can be added by this equipment. Access, staff training and local pathways should be considered to ensure the safe and efficient use of technology.

Summit Medical and Scientific have championed the use of evidence-based, cost-effective and expertly-designed rehabilitation technology for many years, partnering with some of the world’s leading developers to supply state-of-the-art equipment in the UK. We are pleased to see the latest guidelines from NICE which further shows how technology can integrate with traditional rehabilitation, providing the best treatment and outcomes for patients across the country. Click here to view all our clinical solutions, or get in touch.

Upper Extremities

(Image: The ROBERT® upper limb mobilisation robot)

About Summit Medical and Scientific

Summit Medical and Scientific are passionate about the power of rehabilitation technology.

We represent clinical technology leaders ddrobotec^®, Hocoma, Life Science Robotics and Motek to provide the total solution for rehabilitation in the UK. Our partners have developed innovative therapy devices using robotics, sensors and virtual reality for early and acute rehabilitation, gait and balance therapy, arm and hand therapy, body weight support and more. Click here to view all of our clinical solutions.

Get in touch with Summit Medical and Scientific today to find out more about incorporating state-of-the-art rehabilitation technology into your practice.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn, and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.