Wearable robotics company Roam Robotics has developed a smart knee orthosis for reducing knee pain and improving mobility.

The Ascend Smart Knee senses the wearer’s movements, adjusting itself accordingly to reduce loads on the knee and offering a non-surgical solution for osteoarthritis, instability or weakness.

According to researchers, the lightweight Ascend features advanced embedded sensor technology that supports the wearer as they rise up from seated positions or as the travel up and down steps. Additionally, researchers suggest that the technology can support wearers as they take part in activities such as gardening or walking.

Source: Roam Robotics

The system also includes Ascend's wearable SmartPack featuring onboard microprocessors that rely on proprietary algorithms to understands the wearer’s intent and subsequently directs the device.

During trials of the smart knee, researchers found wearers reported a 46% reduction in knee pain and a 67% overall functional improvement.

For more information on the Ascend Smart Knee, watch the accompanying video that appears courtesy of Roam Robotics.