How a device called an exoskeleton is helping one N.B. man get back on his feet

After a tragic motor vehicle accident left Josh Nevers with a spinal cord injury, he found himself on a challenging journey to learn how to walk again despite minimal feeling in his legs. As a patient at the Stan Cassidy Centre for Rehabilitation at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton, one crucial aspect of his recovery has been the use of a cutting-edge technology known as the EksoNR Robotic Exoskeleton.

This robotic suit, also called an exoskeleton, has been a game-changer for Nevers. “It feels pretty amazing to walk with it again because you’re actually moving your legs like you are walking,” he shared optimistically. “I hope it gets me so I can use my leg braces again.”

Physiotherapist Erica de Passillé explained that the exoskeleton is a battery-operated wearable device designed to assist patients with minimal leg movement in walking. “It allows patients to take more steps than they otherwise could over ground,” De Passillé added. “So it’s a fantastic piece of technology.”

The suit was made possible through a generous donation from the Chalmers Foundation, according to the Horizon Health Network. Nevers, who had no movement in his lower body and had suffered additional leg injuries in recent years, has been working diligently with his physiotherapists, including Meghan Leroux, to regain his mobility.

Leroux emphasized the importance of the exoskeleton in Nevers’ rehabilitation journey. “We’re just trying to get him back to being able to walk within the home again and back to what he was doing,” she said. They have been using the equipment twice a week to help Nevers become comfortable in a standing position and have witnessed his remarkable progress.

“Especially when you have a goal that you’re working toward, and you know that this is part of getting there and part of that journey, you know, and to get him back to where he wants to be,” Leroux expressed proudly.

De Passillé highlighted the potential of the exoskeleton in promoting independence for patients like Nevers. “And the feeling of being able to stand up and take steps is like none other, especially if they haven’t been able to in a while.”

The use of this advanced technology not only facilitates physical rehabilitation but also instills hope and determination in patients like Nevers as they strive to regain their mobility and independence. The EksoNR Robotic Exoskeleton is truly a remarkable tool in the journey towards recovery and rebuilding a fulfilling life post-injury.