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Australian First Rehabilitation Robot

Patient Wendy Leeson undergoing ROBERT treatment after a stroke

Gold Coast University Hospital is the first hospital in Australia to introduce the first-of-its-kind rehabilitation robot, ROBERT.

This innovative technology can be used for upper and lower limb rehabilitation for patients recovering from stroke or other neurological conditions.

The machine is mobile and can be used throughout the hospital, by a patient’s bedside, or in outpatient appointments. 

Exercises are prescribed by allied health clinicians based on individual needs and can start early in recovery, offering patients customised treatment that would otherwise be difficult to achieve.

The clinician can set the number of repetitions, and whether a patient completes the movement assisted by the robot, actively with the robot, or with resistance. 

The rehabilitation exercises help patients mobilise earlier, maintain muscle strength and promote blood flow, to improve quality of life for patients.

There are currently nine clinicians trained to use the robot, with ongoing training as demand increases.

Gold Coast Health Assistant Director Occupational Therapy, Julie-Ann Brydon said the technology is initially being used to assist stroke patients and could potentially revolutionise their recovery.

“Robotics rehabilitation contributes to increased intensity of movement which is proven to positively impact stroke outcomes as it promotes new pathways in the brain, following an injury,” she said. 

“The National Stroke Audit reveals that nearly 60 per cent of Australian stroke patients arrive at hospitals with upper limb impairments. As our population ages, there's a growing need for innovative technologies like ROBERT to support Allied Health care delivery."

This cutting-edge technology will supplement current conventional therapies and support patients towards achieving their goals.  


Last updated 24 Oct 2024