Exploratory study of the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL), a wearable robot, on improving mobility in patients with musculoskeletal ambulation disability symptom complex (MADS) and underlying disorders of MADS - Exploratory study of the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL), a wearable robot, on improving mobility in patients with musculoskeletal ambulation disability symptom complex (MADS) and underlying disorders of MADS

Thirty-eight patients with limited mobility were enrolled. The underlying diseases were stroke (n=12), spinal cord disorders (n=8), joint diseases (n=4), and other diseases (n=14). Thirty-two patients completed 16 sessions of training with the HAL. The results of the 10-m walk test included significant improvements in gait speed, number of steps, and cadence. Although improvements were observed in balance ability, as measured with the Timed Up & Go test and Berg Balance Scale, the results were not statistically significant. No serious adverse events were observed during the training.