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Written question asked by Andrew Rosindell (Conservative) on Thursday, 7 December 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 11 December 2023. It was answered by Andrew Stephenson (Conservative) on Wednesday, 13 December 2023 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.


Musculoskeletal Disorders: Preventive Medicine

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if she will make an assessment of the potential efficacy of the use of (a) exoskeletons and (b) wearable robotics as a technical aid to help prevent musculoskeletal disorders; and whether the Government is taking steps to promote such technologies.

Answer

No assessment has been currently made on use of exoskeletons or wearable robotics as a technical aid, and NHS England is not currently exploring the use of exoskeletons or wearable robotics within their musculoskeletal work.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence is developing medical technologies guidance on GaitSmart, which is looking at its use for people at risk for falling. Gaitsmart is a sensor-based digital technology that monitors limb movement, for gait and mobility issues. This guidance is due to be published this month.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
5828
Session
2023-24
Subjects
Preventive medicine Technology Musculoskeletal disorders
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk