ROBOT PHYSIO

Machines help stroke & brain injury patients regain limb use

- MARTIN BAGOT

MEET the robot physiotherapy coach, which could be rolled out across NHS hospitals.

The 2ft machines have arms and legs which they use to demonstrate exercises to stroke and brain injury survivors to regain use of their limbs.

Patients need to do repetitive exercises to improve body function.

But it is believed only three in 10 continue with them due to forgetfulness and lack of motivation.

An EU-funded science programme has trialled the robot in a three-month study in Austria. It is now being expanded to include patients in Scotland.

The robot can anticipate how the user wishes to move during their prescribed routine by reading their brain activity.

It encourages them to complete their exercises by mimicking their intended movements and giving verbal motivation and feedback.