The Andago Gait Training System at UPMC

 

 

Made by the Swiss medical technology company Hocoma, the Andago® is a mobile robot used for body-weight supported gait training.

It allows upright, hands-free walking that bridges the gap between treadmill-based gait training and free walking.

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This technology benefits stroke and traumatic brain injury patients by helping them move from assisted gait therapy to unsupported walking sooner than traditional therapy would allow.

It also enables just one therapist to work with the patient rather than two or more therapists, since the technology supports the weight of the patient.

Learn more about robotics and gaming technology at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute.

“We are excited to have this latest robotic technology as part of our collection,” said Shelbey Rojik, director, Rehab Services, UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at UPMC Mercy.

“Robotics and gaming technology provide repetitive training that can be adjusted for each patients’ individual care. The Andago is a great benefit for stroke and brain injury patients who are learning how to walk again,” she said.

The Andago has two electronically driven wheels and four casters that allow the device to move forward, backward, and make turns. The intuitive nature of the device enables it to move and turn according to the demands of the patient. It also has an electronically-operated patient lift that helps bring the seated patient into a standing position.

A tethered, hand-held control allows the therapist to control the lift and the body-weight support capability. It also enables the therapist to program various training modes and steer the device. This capability makes it possible for the therapist to stand to the side and concentrate on the patient’s gait.

“The Andago is beneficial for both patients and therapists,” Rojik said. “The device’s harness provides fall protection and ensures safe, confident training for the patients. This enables the therapists to focus on the intensity of the training using various training modes, while having peace of mind that the patient is safe and secure.”

The Andago joins three other robotic technologies provided by Hocoma, all of which are now in use at the UPMC Rehabilitation Institute at UPMC Mercy. These other devices include:

  • Armeo®: Task-oriented rehabilitation to improve arm movement
  • Erigo®Pro: A robotic tilt table for people who can’t stand on their own
  • Lokomat®: Treadmill-based, intensive gait therapy

About UPMC Rehabilitation Institute

The UPMC Rehabilitation Institute offers inpatient, outpatient, and transitional rehabilitation, as well as outpatient physician services so that care is available to meet the needs of our patients at each phase of the recovery process. Renowned physiatrists from the University of Pittsburgh Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, as well as highly trained physical, occupational, and speech therapists, provide individualized care in 12 inpatient units within acute care hospitals and over 80 outpatient locations close to home and work.