Reid Health Rehabilitation to offer exoskeleton robotic devices, becoming Indiana’s first center to have pediatric technology

Adults and children with mobility impairments will soon have access to advanced technology that could help them gain movement.

Reid Health Rehabilitation Services will add exoskeleton robotic gait trainers to its services, making the center the first in the state to offer the pediatric version of the devices.

Exoskeleton robotic devices are lightweight, hard mechanical frames that provide task-specific and intensive gait training. The built-in joints allow for movement while a physical therapist collects valuable data to add to a patient’s care plan. Trainers are adaptable to fit each patient.

Jenny Gualtieri, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Reid Health, said the center is excited to add robotics to the services it offers.

Four robotic trainers will be available. Two pediatric devices, plus two adult trainers for inpatient and outpatient use, have been added to the Rehab center.

“The exoskeletons are the top-of-the-line technology and will allow us to progress our patients further in their physical rehabilitation,” Gualtieri said. “The devices are another tool we’ll have available in our toolbox to offer our patients.”

Reid's adult physical therapists are in the process of completing certification after receiving the EKSO NR exoskeletons in late October. Pediatric training and implementation will follow upon receipt of the Trexo gait trainers.

With the robotic trainers in Wayne County, patients will have easier access to the technology. Adults could commute to Indiana or Ohio facilities to use the robotics, but the nearest locations are about an hour from Richmond. Children have one option available in Cincinnati.

Reid worked with Ekso Bionics for the adult devices and Trexo Robotics to purchase the pediatric devices The use of exoskeletons is ideal for patients with neurological conditions such as strokes and traumatic brain injuries.

Megan Smith, Pediatric Therapy Manager at Reid Health, said the pediatric trainer increases rehabilitation potential, including for children with limited mobility because of injury, genetic diseases, or developmental, nervous, or neurological disorders.

Additionally, therapists can use pediatric trainers to work toward goals including bearing weight, functional stretching, strength training, and building independence and confidence.

The robotic trainers provide the ability to enhance physical therapy sessions, improving patients’ well-being.

“We only have a certain amount of time with people, and we need to look for ways to maximize that time,” said Sarah Kouns, Manager of Inpatient Rehabilitation at Reid Health.

Reid Health Foundation provided a $180,000 grant toward pediatric devices and a second $485,895 grant for the adult trainers. Contributions to the Reid Foundation, or its Rehabilitation and Children’s Therapy funds, help to cover expenses for equipment purchases.

“These are two examples of how gifts to Reid Foundation are used to improve services at Reid Health, making a huge impact on the quality of life for the patients we serve,” said Angela Cline, director of Reid Health Foundation.

Patients who could benefit from the exoskeleton robotic device are encouraged to speak with their provider. Look for more details ahead in 2024!