Honda walking assist device tested in rehabilitation training
7 July 2008
Honda has begun collaborative testing of its experimental walking
assist device with Shinseikai Medical Group in Kasumigaseki-Minami
Hospital (Kawagoe, Saitama prefecture, Japan). The device was created to
support walking by the elderly and other people with weakened leg
muscles, but who are still able to walk on their own.
Honda began research of a walking assist device in 1999 with the goal
to provide more people with the joy of mobility. The device lengthens
the user's stride, making it easier to walk.
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Rehabilitation training with
Honda's
walking assist device |
The compatibility and effectiveness of the device will be evaluated
during rehabilitation training at Kasumigaseki-Minami Hospital to help
people relearn to walk safely and efficiently. The testing also will
identify and study areas of effectiveness and potential issues from
different perspectives by the trainees, physical therapists, doctors and
researchers.
Currently, the device is in the feasibility stage and Honda has been
showcasing and gathering feedback from a wide range of people who
experienced the device at relevant trade shows including the
International Trade Fair on Barrier Free Equipments & Rehabilitation for
the Elderly & the Disabled (BARRIER FREE 2008) held in April (at Intex
Osaka) and at the Welfare 2008 in June (at Nagoya International
Exhibition Hall).