The Tek RMD combines the ability to stand with the ability to move in a unique way that is suitable for many people who have lower limb paralysis or weakness. In this article we will look at some essential facts about this “robotic mobility device”.

In this article, we look at the efficiency of FES Cycling and see that there is actually lots of room for improvement when it comes to metabolic efficiency and power output.

Of course that does not mean that they should not be used. Much research over decades shows the benefits for users from regular training. FES Cycling performance is good enough to produce results if people use these products. The benefits are greater than those via passive cycling alone.

However, any engineer who looks closely at the technology will realise that there is much that can be improved when it coms to FES cycling exercise. This is what engineering aims to do - refine and improve things for the benefit of society. Improving the technology could produce a greater health benefit for the same or less effort so it's worth striving for. It should also be said that this is no trivial challenge. All electro-mechanical systems that interact with the human body tend to offer design difficulties that are not obvious to the casual observer.

Combining a passive/active exercise bike with synchronised FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation) is a well-researched and well-known exercise modality for persons to use after a spinal cord injury or other neurological condition.  One of the benefits often sought by our spinal cord injured clients is preservation of bone density and we will look at the evidence for this in this article. Bone is a dynamic tissue - it responds to the needs placed upon it - getting stronger under load and weaker in the absence of load. Paralysis after a spinal cord injury and lack of activity that loads the bones results in a loss of bone strength and increased risk of fractures.. FES Cycing is one way of helping to prevent this.

Contractures, or reduced joint mobility, are a common problem associated with spinal cord injury. Depending on the level of injury, we can often anticipate the muscle, tissues and joints at risk and ideally focus on prevention. From experience, prevention is always better than trying to manage these problems once a contracture is established. Research evidence is lacking when it comes to the effectiveness of passive stretching. Studies are few and usually focus on short durations of stretching. We suggest orthotic interventions have a place here - particularly when dynamic stretch can be used.

Stroke can be a devastating and life-altering condition that affects a significant number of individuals each year. It can cause permanent damage to the brain, leading to long-term health consequences for patients, their families, and caregivers. As healthcare professionals, it's important for us to understand the recovery rate for stroke patients so that we can educate patients and their families on the outcomes they may expect. In this blog, we'll explore what percentage of stroke patients make a full recovery, what factors affect recovery, and what healthcare professionals can do to help patients achieve the best possible outcomes.

Pressure ulcers have been a serious healthcare issue for many decades. In fact, today, the NHS spends some £1.4m per day in dealing with them and of course this does not sum up the total economic and emotional cost. Pressure ulcers are often thought of as preventable and even a “failure of care” but they are a result of many factors both mechanical and medical and this complexity is perhaps the reason why we so often see them.
The PRAFO range of ankle foot orthoses have evolved to be popular and effective devices for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers at the heel area of vulnerable individuals.