Lifeward Ltd. announced today that it has received 510(k) FDA clearance for the ReWalk 7, the newest generation of its personal exoskeleton device designed for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). This wearable technology enables SCI patients to stand and walk again, representing a significant advancement in mobility solutions for this patient population.
The seventh-generation device includes several new features, enhancements, and upgrades, though specific technical details have not yet been disclosed. This regulatory milestone builds upon Lifeward's pioneering position in the exoskeleton market, which began in 2014 when the company received the nation's first FDA clearance for an exoskeleton medical device for individuals with SCI.
"FDA clearance is a major milestone for our Company and for the industry," said Larry Jasinski, CEO of Lifeward. "For two decades, Lifeward has been committed to providing our users with the most advanced exoskeleton technology and expanding access to all those who can benefit from use of the device. With the ReWalk 7, we are able to deliver on that commitment, and will continue to look for opportunities to innovate and improve upon medical devices for the SCI community."
Recent Regulatory and Reimbursement Progress
The clearance for ReWalk 7 follows several significant developments that have expanded access to exoskeleton technology. In 2023, the FDA cleared the previous model, ReWalk 6.0, for use on stairs and curbs, substantially increasing the practical utility of the device in real-world settings.
Perhaps more importantly for patient access, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a national reimbursement policy in 2024 for all beneficiaries who qualify for use of the device. This policy change represents a critical step toward making this advanced technology financially accessible to more patients with spinal cord injuries.
Clinical Significance for SCI Patients
Spinal cord injuries affect approximately 294,000 people in the United States, with about 17,900 new cases each year, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. These injuries often result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly limiting mobility and independence.
Exoskeleton technology like the ReWalk system offers potential improvements in quality of life beyond the obvious mobility benefits. Research has shown that upright positioning and walking can provide numerous physiological benefits for individuals with SCI, including improved cardiovascular health, enhanced bowel and bladder function, reduced pain, and decreased risk of pressure sores.
Market Availability and Company Background
Lifeward plans to begin sales of the ReWalk 7 in the United States as soon as the product is available. The company has not yet announced specific pricing or availability timelines.
Founded in 2001, Lifeward (Nasdaq: LFWD) designs, develops, and commercializes solutions for physical rehabilitation and recovery. The company's portfolio includes several innovative products beyond the ReWalk Exoskeleton, such as the AlterG Anti-Gravity System, the ReStore Exo-Suit, and the MyoCycle FES System.
Lifeward has operations in the United States, Israel, and Germany, reflecting its global approach to addressing mobility challenges. The company's mission focuses on driving innovation to transform the lives of individuals with physical limitations or disabilities.
Future Implications
The continued advancement of exoskeleton technology represents a promising direction for rehabilitation medicine. As devices become more sophisticated, lighter, and more intuitive to use, they may offer increasingly practical solutions for daily mobility challenges faced by individuals with spinal cord injuries.
With the regulatory clearance of ReWalk 7 and the recent CMS reimbursement policy, the accessibility of this technology appears to be improving, potentially bringing these mobility solutions to a broader population of patients who could benefit from them.
Healthcare providers specializing in spinal cord injury rehabilitation will likely be monitoring the performance and patient outcomes associated with this new generation of exoskeleton technology as it enters clinical use.
