“Revolutionary” bionic exoskeleton gets a newer sleeker look for patients

Ottobock has launched the latest edition of its bionic exoskeleton in the UK, giving patients with lower limb weakness a more streamlined and efficient walking system.

The new C-Brace, which can be bought exclusively at Dorset Orthopaedic, monitors a person’s steps at a rate of 50 times per second to create a natural walking movement.

Made of carbon fibre and containing computers and sensors around the thigh, the new C-Brace moves intuitively with the user and features smaller and more advanced computer processors, alongside a smaller battery pack for a more discreet and sleek appearance.

It can be worn over or under clothing and is suitable for a number of conditions, including post-polio syndrome, weakness resulting from stroke, partial paralysis and spinal injury.

Lighter than its predecessor, users of the new C-Brace can monitor its performance and change its settings — for example switching it to cycling mode — via a smartphone app.

Kevin Green, Head of Orthotics at Ottobock UK, said: “The advanced technology in the new generation C-Brace works with the user’s residual muscle function to help restore their physiological gait pattern. And, for the first time, a user can walk down stairs, step over step, with a flexed knee while using it.”

Matt Hughes, Clinical Services Director at Dorset Orthopaedic, added: “We’re delighted to be the exclusive distributor of the new generation C-Brace. We’ve had great success with the first generation brace and the mobility improvement to the wearer is huge compared to alternative solutions.”