Tampa VA improves access to exoskeleton technology for Veterans

The Robotics and Advanced Technology Center at James A. Haley VA in Tampa is using cutting-edge technology to improve the lives of Veterans.

The center’s mission is to enhance patient care through the development and application of advanced technologies for rehabilitation. 

The Exoskeleton-Assisted Ambulation Program was introduced in April 2022 as the center’s first clinic program. It employs the use of six different robotic exoskeleton devices to aid the rehabilitation and restoration of gait. The clinic treats Veterans who have suffered spinal cord injuries, strokes, or Veterans who have difficulty walking due to other neurologic injuries or illnesses.

“The center was created out of an underutilization of robotic exoskeletons and the need for trained therapists who specialize in this technology to be able to implement a successful program,” said Dr. Cassandra Hogan, physical therapist and exoskeleton specialist.

Program serves as rehabilitation and orthotic prescription clinics

One of the center’s main initiatives is to increase the use of robotic exoskeleton technologies in rehabilitation and increase access to these technologies for home-use prescription for Veterans that qualify. The program serves as a rehabilitation clinic, allowing patients to use these technologies in addition to their other therapies to improve independent walking skills. It also serves as an orthotic prescription clinic, helping Veterans with no independent walking ability acquire devices to use at home and in the community.

Navy Veteran John Holgan (pictured above) is an active user of the exoskeleton. He credits the device and team of providers for improving his quality of life both mentally and physically.

“I tell those who think it’s a lot to do for a simple stroll to try and not use their legs for a day or two, to sit in a chair and have to look up at people every day, to have a conversation or in some cases to be completely ignored,” Holgan said. “I tell them to engage in mental games of navigation and negotiation for every move you make. Then come tell me you don’t feel it’s worth the effort for a simple stroll.”

Over 30 Veterans using exoskeleton technology

The clinicians in the center are hopeful that increasing utilization of these devices will not only improve the lives of Veterans but will also help move the technology forward, making devices like these available to more Veterans in the future.

“Right now, limitations in the technology only allow the use of exoskeletons for a relatively small number of patients, but the more we use these devices and get them into the hands of Veterans and clinicians, the faster we can move the technology forward and make it available to more Veterans,” said Dr. Kathryn Fitzgerald, physical therapist and exoskeleton specialist.

The center at Haley VA has integrated exoskeleton technology into the rehabilitation of over 30 Veterans since their work began last year and has prescribed several devices for home-use. They aim to continue serving Veterans locally as well as helping other VA and community care facilities expand their robotics programs across the country.