A-Gear robotic arm has potential to help those with Duchenne muscular dystrophy

A video describing the research can be found at this address:

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Dubbed A-Gear, the robotic arm has been developed in the Netherlands by researchers from the University of Twente's MIRA research centre, the VU University Medical Center Amsterdam (VUmc), Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), and Radboud University Medical Centre.

According to the University of Twente, the team has finished the first prototype for a discreet, body-connected support aid that can be worn under the clothing and support independent operation of the arm during daily activities.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a rare degenerative condition affecting the muscles of young boys who eventually lose the ability to use their arms, along with other symptoms of the condition. Medicines can slow the progress of the disease and increase the life expectancy of boys with Duchenne, thereby expediting the need to preserve arm function.