The value of the global market for rehab robotics is expected to more than quadruple between 2022 and 2030, data suggests.

Kings Research reports that the market was recorded at US$239.1m in 2022, with growth likely to take it to US$1026.2m by 2030.

As the world’s population continues to grow and the field of robotics and AI advances, combined with the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the market for rehabilitation robots is projected to experience significant growth.

The prevalence of chronic illnesses and disabilities is on the rise, leading to a higher demand for rehabilitation services.

The emergence of remote therapy and monitoring due to the pandemic has underscored the importance of robots, promoting the development of tele-rehab technologies.

Rehab robotics includes a range of robotic systems, such as exoskeletons, robotic arms, and robotic gait trainers.

Although primarily used in clinical environments such as hospitals and rehabilitation centers, there is a growing trend of incorporating these devices into home-based care.

Rehab robots have a wide range of applications in various fields.

They are instrumental in aiding patients during their recovery process after injuries, surgeries, or neurological disorders, especially in the realm of physical therapy.

Major players operating in the global rehabilitation robots market are focusing on acquisitions as their key strategy to expand their business.

For instance, in August 2023, ReWalk Robotics acquired AlterG to expand its business and speed up ReWalk’s journey towards becoming profitable.

This purchase united ReWalk’s knowledge of robotic exoskeletons with AlterG’s groundbreaking anti-gravity treadmill technology, enabling the merged company to provide a wide range of rehabilitation solutions in its portfolio.

In November 2023, researchers at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) created a specialised rehabilitation robot called the mobile ankle-foot exoneuromusculoskeleton.

This robotic device has been devised for stroke patients who have hemiplegia, which is characterised by paralysis on one side of the body.

These individuals typically experience muscle weakness and lack of coordination in the affected lower limb.

PolyU’s mobile ankle-foot exoneuromusculoskeleton is a specialized rehab robot for stroke patients with hemiplegia, addressing muscle weakness and coordination issues.

It automatically identifies walking forms and offers mechanical support for stable standing, aided by vibration feedback and neuromuscular electrical stimulation.

With a rechargeable battery, it runs for four hours and integrates IoT for progress tracking via a companion app. The device supports telerehabilitation, facilitating remote monitoring and mutual patient support.

Clinical studies reveal a 40 per cent improvement in stroke rehabilitation effectiveness compared to external mechanical forces alone, showcasing its potential impact on patient outcomes.