Dubai: An advanced robotic device equipped with augmented reality will now teach patients with physical and neurological injuries to walk in much less time as compared to conventional physiotherapy approaches.
The device, to be made available to all patients at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA)- run Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre (DPRC), will help patients recover mobility and independence by adopting new techniques.
Dr Amal Al Shamlan, Director of DPRC, said: “The device is an excellent addition to our facility. It will enhance the progress of gait training for our patients of all ages with physical and neurological limitations. More than 75 patients at the centre will immediately benefit from the introduction of this device. Of these several are children.”
Dr Amal added that the device had a unique feature of realistically simulating climbing stairs and can be operated by one therapist only. It stimulated the action of walking and climbing stairs, giving patients the opportunity to choose the amount of assistance they would need with one touch. This assistance can be increased or decreased with an improvement in their condition.
The augmented reality feature on the device will help patients choose forest or beach trails while performing their physiotherapy sessions and provide the choice of interactive games for children undergoing therapy.
