Current State, Needs, and Opportunities for Wearable Robots in Military Medical Rehabilitation and Force Protection

Rory A. Cooper*, George Smolinski, Jorge L. Candiotti, Shantanu Satpute, Garrett G. Grindle, Tawnee L. Sparling, Michelle J. Nordstrom, Xiaoning Yuan, Allison Symsack, Chang Dae Lee, Nicola Vitiello, Steven Knezevic, Thomas G. Sugar, Urs Schneider, Verena Kopp, Mirjam Holl, Ignacio Gaunaurd, Robert Gailey, Paolo Bonato, Ron PoropatichDavid J. Adet, Francesco Clemente, James Abbas, Paul F. Pasquina

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Despite advances in wearable robots across various fields, there is no consensus definition or design framework for the application of this technology in rehabilitation or musculoskeletal (MSK) injury prevention. This paper aims to define wearable robots and explore their applications and challenges for military rehabilitation and force protection for MSK injury prevention. We conducted a modified Delphi method, including a steering group and 14 panelists with 10+ years of expertise in wearable robots. Panelists presented current wearable robots currently in use or in development for rehabilitation or assistance use in the military workforce and healthcare. The steering group and panelists met to obtain a consensus on the wearable robot definition applicable for rehabilitation or primary injury prevention. Panelists unanimously agreed that wearable robots can be grouped into three main applications, as follows: (1) primary and secondary MSK injury prevention, (2) enhancement of military activities and tasks, and (3) rehabilitation and reintegration. Each application was presented within the context of its target population and state-of-the-art technology currently in use or under development. Capturing expert opinions, this study defines wearable robots for military rehabilitation and MSK injury prevention, identifies health outcomes and assessment tools, and outlines design requirements for future advancements.

Original languageEnglish
Article number236
JournalActuators
Volume13
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2024
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • delphi method
  • disability
  • exoskeleton
  • injury prevention
  • military workforce
  • musculoskeletal injuries

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