MS patients to trial exoskeletons in new UK study  

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) will use exoskeletons to help them with physical activity as part of a new UK study. 

MS damages nerves in the body, making it harder to do everyday things like walk, talk, eat and think. According to the MS Society, research suggests people with the condition should do moderate exercise for 30 minutes, three times a week. But many find this difficult due to the symptoms. The MS Society is raising £40,000 to support the exoskeleton research, which could significantly improve mobility for MS patients.  

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“We all know how important exercise is,” said research lead Dr Siva Nair, from Sheffield’s Royal Hallamshire Hospital. “A lack of it can cause heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity and depression. So we need to find a way to make it easier for people with advanced MS to take part in physical activity. Robotics is the natural step forward. By embracing this technology we are giving people who can’t walk the chance to exercise like everyone else.

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