AI exoskeletons help people walk and could soon become mainstream

AI-powered exoskeletons are moving from science fiction into medicine, workplaces and outdoor pursuits.

The wearable suits use batteries and motors to support and boost the human body. The industry is growing quickly and is projected to be worth more than $2 billion by 2030. For people with conditions such as cerebral palsy, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis, the technology is already proving revolutionary, helping them walk when they would otherwise tire quickly. Once the preserve of science fiction, exoskeletons are also being used by fighters on the frontline in Ukraine.

Patient case studies

Charlie has a rare condition similar to cerebral palsy. If his range of movement decreases, he could lose the ability to walk altogether. He normally uses calipers, but he tested a battery-powered exoskeleton. The device, originally designed for the military, uses a motor to help power his movement. His posture improved immediately. Video showed better knee extension through his stance. Charlie said the suit felt like 'a robot telling you what to do' and like 'strapping your physiotherapist to your leg'. He said it could make him less tired and allow him to visit the New Forest.

Nina Sparks, ParalympicsGB's first female snowboarder, has multiple sclerosis, which has reduced her stamina. She tested an exoskeleton and said she could not remember when she had last walked like that. She nicknamed it RoboSparky. She was able to go upstairs one foot at a time for the first time in years. Diagnosed with MS at 30, she said the device made walking feel as it used to.

Availability and future uses

The kits are currently available only privately. Doctors hope that as prices fall, the NHS could consider them. One expert said this is 'just the tip of the iceberg' and predicted an explosion in devices to help hips, knees, ankles, elbows and shoulders, giving patients many more options.

Outside medicine, exoskeletons are being tested in workplaces. Devices that take the weight of tools could help reduce the 22 million sick days a year caused by back and body strains. Workers using them said they did not get fatigue in their arms or back. The aim is to enable employees rather than replace them with robots.

Cost, comfort and battery life have long held the industry back. Tests at the top of the world suggest the technology is improving. A mountaineering partner of Adriana used an exoskeleton to scale Everest. She said it was striking how fast and how far he could go without getting out of breath. She said one of the most useful applications could be rescues. For non-professional mountaineers too, wearable mini motors may one day help power how people walk, work and play.