A new exoskeleton to help improve balance and prevent falls
Official title: Physiologically-inspired exoskeleton controller to enhance human balance
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10998232 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a special robotic suit that helps people stay balanced and avoid falls, making it easier for them to walk and move around safely.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $79,756 |
| NIH project number | 1F32HD112128-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10998232 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults and youth experiencing balance issues or a decline in mobility.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable balance and no mobility impairments are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a robotic exoskeleton designed to enhance human balance and reduce the risk of falls, which is a major public health issue. The approach involves creating a control system inspired by human physiology that coordinates responses at multiple joints, particularly the hip and ankle, to maintain stability during standing and walking. By utilizing feedback from the body's center of mass, the exoskeleton aims to provide timely assistance in various conditions that may lead to falls. Patients may benefit from this technology as it could help them maintain their independence and mobility.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of falls and related injuries, improving quality of life for many individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using robotic exoskeletons for mobility enhancement, but this specific approach to balance control is innovative and largely untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jakubowski, Kristen — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Jakubowski, Kristen
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.