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09 February 2010

Scientists have developed a robotic device that could help people with severe spinal cord injuries to walk again.

The device, known as ReWalk, was designed by Argo Medical Technologies in Haifa, Israel, and comprises a backpack, an upper body harness and leg supports fitted with motorised knees and hips, reports the New York Daily News.

A clinical trial has been initiated at MossRehab, which is based at Elkins Park hospital in the American state of Philadelphia, where 14 patients are set to put ReWalk to the test.

The device is designed for people who have use of their upper body, as the wearer controls the movement of the leg supports with crutches, while motion sensors connected to a backpack computer let the device know when a step should be taken.

Dr Alberto Esquenazi of MossRehab is quoted by the news provider as saying: "ReWalk should become available in the near future and will be able to be applied widely to people with spinal cord injuries that have preserved the use of the arms."

MossRehab is a rehabilitation provider serving those who have experienced brain injury, stroke, amputation and other physical disabilities.

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