Wearable robot boosts strength of children with spinal muscular atrophy

May 21, 2026 · 12:39 PM UTC ·4 min read · 0 reactions · 0 comments · 54 views

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TL;DR · WeSearch summary

A wearable robot has been developed to enhance the strength of children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) undergoing gene therapy. The device provides tailored resistance training, leading to significant improvements in knee function and muscle strength. Researchers observed marked gains in physical capabilities after six weeks of use, indicating potential for better rehabilitation outcomes.

Key facts

▪The wearable robot weighs just under one kilogram and improves knee function in children with SMA.
▪After six weeks of using the robot, participants showed a 20% increase in quadriceps size and doubled their knee force.
▪The device is designed for home use and gamifies the training process to engage children effectively.

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Record

Original publisher	Nature
Canonical URL	https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-01573-x
Publication time	Thu, 21 May 2026 12:39:11 +0000
Retrieval time	2026-05-21T12:51:11.071Z
Last seen	2026-05-21T12:51:11.071Z
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Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand

NEWS 20 May 2026 Wearable robot boosts strength of children with spinal muscular atrophy The device helps muscle recovery in those receiving gene therapy for the rare neuromuscular condition. By Liam Drew0 Liam Drew Liam Drew is a freelance science journalist based near London. View author publications Search author on: PubMed Google Scholar Email Bluesky Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Whatsapp X Conventional physiotherapy is often a part of neuromuscular rehabilitation in children.Credit: Cultura/AlamyA wearable robot weighing just under one kilogram improves knee function in children living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), according to research published in Nature today1.The device provides resistance training, tailored to the individual, for children who are unable to walk because of SMA.

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