b'and Omega Plus. Newer stimulators can beThough BWS gait training may increase used on any exercise bike and are activatedthe number of repetitions of stepping, the based on the position and angle of the limb,reduced weight on lower extremities changes such as Stim2Go. themuscleforcesandpatternof walking. On the other hand, FES arm devices allowBWSgaittrainingislimitedtotherapyas forincreasedfreedomofmovementtothese devices do not allow for gait beyond the participate in functional tasks without beinglimits of the overhead support. Technology anchored to a bike. These devices focus onfor overground gait continues to progress with restoring the ability to reach, grasp, pinch, androbotics using exoskeletons. Exoskeletons are open and close the hand. A few of the currentwearable robotics used to enhance mobility, devices include Bioness H200 and Xcite.strength, and endurance of the user. Exoskeletons A common difficulty for people with MS isfor gait attach to the trunk, pelvis, and legs to foot drop, which can cause issues in walking.assist with stepping allowing for gait beyond Common FES gait devices activate the musclesthe limits of a clinic. EksoBionics and ReWalk in the lower leg to reduce or eliminate the footare two devices with this technology currently. drop. Other FES devices for walking includeAugmented and virtual reality stimulation of muscles in the thigh to improveIn addition to technology improving function, knee exion in swing or provide improvedthere is an increase in technology that is used knee stability in stance. Sensors in these devicesto make therapy more engaging and fun. The detect when the user is taking a step andworld of augmented and virtual reality, often activate the muscle in time to lift the foot.used in gaming, has found its way to therapy. These devices are used in the clinic for trainingDuring VR, the user wears a headset in which and are available for long-term home anda computer-generated interactive 3D world is community use. Devices include WalkAide,viewed. VR can be a fun way to assess and with one muscle stimulation; Bioness, withtreat upper and lower extremity, balance, and uptotwomusclestimulation;andCionicdizzinessproblems.Thesedevicesrange Neural Sleeve with up to four channels offrom typical home gaming systems to rehab stimulation.specic devices. Such devices include Occulus Body weight supportand Virtualis. Another type of gait-training technologyIt will be exciting to see what the future holds includes body weight support systems. Withas technology continues to progress and these BWS training, a patient is supported in adevices are used in new innovative ways. harness, which is connected to an overhead support system. Weight through the legs can be reduced allowing for improved movementTheproductsmentionedarenotan and safety during balance and gait training. Legendorsement by the author or MS Focus, movement can be facilitated by the therapistand are not exhaustive. Please consult your or with use of a robot attached to the legs tophysical therapist or medical provider provide repetitions of the step motion. ZeroGto determine if any specific devices are and Lokomat are two systems with this typeappropriate for you.of technology.15msfocusmagazine.org'