0.96-Kg Robot Lifts Knee Strength 130% in 6 SMA Children After 6 Weeks

3 articles · Updated · BIOENGINEER.ORG · May 21

Six juveniles with SMA type II improved lower-limb function after six weeks of robot-assisted isokinetic training, gaining the ability to perform sit-to-stand movements independently instead of needing support.
The 0.96-kilogram wearable uses a variable-stiffness mechanism and back-drivable damping motor to deliver adjustable, constant-speed resistance rather than passive gait assistance, aiming to actively retrain neuromuscular function.
Knee biomechanics improved sharply, with peak torque rising more than 130%, range of motion 51%, and work output 97%; average seated knee flexion angle fell from 111° to 104°.
MRI and electrophysiology pointed to deeper recovery, showing quadriceps muscle volume up 19%, physiological cross-sectional area up 21%, and femoral nerve CMAP up 19%.
Those gains persisted after training stopped and patients returned to standard physiotherapy, suggesting the device could complement existing SMA rehabilitation if larger trials confirm the results.

Sources

BIOENGINEER.ORG14d ago

Portable Isokinetic Robot Improves Neuromuscular Recovery in Juvenile SMA Type II Patients

dongascience.com14d ago

Beihang University's 0.96 kg Knee Robot Helps SMA Children Stand Unaided in 6 Weeks

조선비즈14d ago

Knee-worn robot helps SMA children stand and build muscle after training - CHOSUNBIZ

4 Sources

A robot helped six kids stand, but was it the unique tech or just the intensive, game-based exercise?

Can a new robot outperform multi-million dollar drugs in restoring mobility for children with rare genetic diseases?

Wearable Knee Robot Enables Independent Standing in Children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Clinical Breakthrough and Future Directions

Overview

A major breakthrough from Beihang University has brought new hope to children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) by introducing a wearable knee robot. This innovative device enabled a child, who previously needed help to stand, to achieve independent standing after just six weeks of training. Remarkably, the child could stand alone even after the robot was removed, showing lasting benefits. This advancement is highly significant for children with SMA, as it not only improves their physical abilities but also supports greater independence and a better quality of life.

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