EXOSKELETON IN RECOVERING MUSCLE STRENGTH IN PEOPLE WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

• Grant number: 25/10088-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: André Tadeu Sugawara
• Grantee: Maria Francielly Myska Alves
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina (FM). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Loss of muscle strength is one of the main consequences of physical disabilities (hemiplegia, paraplegia, and tetraplegia), since these conditions result in partial or total muscle paralysis. In spinal cord injuries, nerve stimulation of the limbs is interrupted, which, in turn, if they do not receive motor stimulation for a long period, suffer a significant loss of muscle mass, leading to weakening, flaccidity, and atrophy. Muscle recovery seeks to minimize these impacts, promoting improved functionality and preserving the patient's health. In this context, the use of assistive technologies, such as robotic exoskeletons, associated with intensive therapies, such as electrical stimulation, has shown promise for muscle strengthening, improved gait, and functional gains in patients with motor disabilities. The exoskeleton has great potential to minimize the harmful effects of lower limb paralysis. This robotic device is designed to wrap around the patient's body (trunk, legs and arms), enabling the movements of standing, walking and performing squats, through trunk flexion. In this way, through motor stimulation, the device helps in the recovery of mobility and in strengthening the muscles of patients.This scientific initiation is based on the analysis of the database related to the use of robotic exoskeletons in gaining muscle strength. (AU)