OREANDA-NEWS. 9 December 2014 Rex Bionics plc (AIM: RXB), the pioneer of the REX Robot technology that enhances the mobility of wheel-chair users, and PhysioFunction, one of the UK's leading providers of specialist hands-on Neurological Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Technology services, are pleased to announce the launch by PhysioFunction of the UK's first physiotherapy service using the REX technology for people with mobility impairment

PhysioFunction will provide regular out-patient clinics at the state-of-the-art Chris Moody Centre at Moulton College, Northamptonshire, on a private payer basis; and progressively at PhysioFunction's 14 other neurological physiotherapy facilities in the Midlands, London and Yorkshire.

During Robot-Assisted Physiotherapy (RAP), REX lifts patients from a sitting position into a robot-supported standing position, allowing them to take part in a set of supported walking and stretching exercises designed by specialist physiotherapists.  

Wheelchair users are at risk of developing numerous medical complications from extended periods of sitting. By enabling them to spend more time standing, walking and exercising, REX may offer significant health benefits, including improved cardiovascular performance, maintenance of joint range, and a reduction in infections1 .   

PhysioFunction will also act as a Reference Centre for the REX technology, collecting the clinical data which will help to demonstrate the benefits of the technology; and will act as a Test Centre for wheelchair users from the UK and overseas who are considering purchasing or leasing a REX.

Crispin Simon, Chief Executive of Rex Bionics, said: "We are delighted to marry our REX technology with PhysioFunction's treatment expertise. REX has caught the public imagination and we hope that this will enable the widest possible range of people to have access to its quality of life benefits."

Jon Graham, Chief Executive of PhysioFunction, said: "Exoskeletons offer significant benefits for the management of secondary complications for wheelchair users compared with conventional rehabilitation methods. REX offers additional benefits to the user, because unlike other exoskeletons which require the use of crutches or a walking frame for stability, it allows users to retain the use of their hands."

Anna Turney, Paralympic Skier from Northampton, the first patient to be treated with RAP by PhysioFunction, said: "It was great to try the REX with Jon Graham at PhysioFunction. If felt very strange to be upright, but I know I'm in safe hands with PhysioFunction."