Standing is an essential human function that allows us to explore and interact with our environment. It is also good for our health. However, for individuals with mobility impairments, or lower limb paralysis, standing regularly and safely can be a challenge. Fortunately, with advances in assistive technology, standing is now possible for many people, even those who cannot stand on their own. Many products - both simple and complex exist to help people stand despite their disability. Many times, people find it hard to embrace a standing regime, due to boredom. What if technology existed that allowed standing to be combined with moving around?

One such technology solution is the Tek RMD; a robotic mobilisation device designed to help individuals with mobility impairments stand and move around with ease in their environments. In this article, we will explore the importance of standing and how the Tek RMD allows individuals to achieve this, both indoors and outdoors.

There is no such thing as the perfect product. Any product has to meet the individual requirements and preferences of the user. However, the Tek RMD is an exceptional, one-of-a-kind type of product, that allows people with lower limb paralysis or weakness to stand and move around in an upright position. It was designed with paraplegia due to a spinal cord injury in mind, but recent enhancements have extended the appeal to those with other neurological conditions.

A fundamental issue in getting the best out of the Tek RMD is being able to get on and of it safely and effectively. In this article we review the most commonly used approaches

Today the wheelchair is one of the most, if not the most, commonly used assistive device for the personal mobility of people with disabilities. I suspect that, throughout history, wheelchairs have often been seen as a source of frustration, and a necessary evil; something that no one actually wanted to use. What matters though is that we consider a wheelchair just like any object we design - within the context of it’s use. We can’t judge the product design in isolation from it’s functional use in the environment and the ambitions of the user. We look at how robotics has allowed a rethink of products for standing and moving.

The Tek RMD combines the ability to stand with the ability to move in a unique way that is suitable for many people who have lower limb paralysis or weakness. In this article we will look at some essential facts about this “robotic mobility device”.

When you have lower limb limb paralysis or weakness it is understandable to feel nervous when a product aims to stand you up. Understanding how the Tek RMD supports the user in standing or whilst moving up and down despite paralysis can act as reassurance and eliminate anxiety.

The Tek RMD from Matia Mobility was designed as an indoor product that allowed users with weak or paralysed legs to stand and move. This in itself has been a great boon for clients who wished to have greater independence for their day to day activities. Some clients discovered that the Tek RMD would work just fine on the outside deck or paving but the arrival of the Outdoor Kit accessory greatly extends this ability.

The video below shows that Tek RMD fitted with outdoor wheels being tried out on grass