ReWalk Bionic Suits Finally Available for Consumer Use in the US

ReWalk bionic suits – which TIME Magazine named among the 25 best inventions of the year 2013 have finally been approved for sale by the U.S. Food and Drug administration, hopefully ushering in a new era for those people suffering from spinal cord injuries or other such injuries that render them incapable of walking.

Developed by ARGO Medical Technologies, the bionic suit received much media attention after paralyzed British athlete’s Claire Lomas competed in a marathon wearing one. The revolutionary exoskeleton suit was invented in 1997 by Israeli-born Dr. Amit Goffer after he became paralyzed following an accident.

Read our interview with him here.

“Innovative devices such as ReWalk go a long way towards helping individuals with spinal cord injuries gain some mobility,” said FDA Office of Device Evaluation director Christy Foreman. “Along with physical therapy, training and assistance from a caregiver, these individuals may be able to use these devices to walk again in their homes and in their communities.”

The ReWalk suit does require the use of hands and shoulders, meaning it isn’t for every person suffering from spinal injuries. But it’s certainly a massive step in the right direction for those 200,000 Americans who could benefit from it.

However, with a market price of $69,500, not just about anybody will be able to afford the Israeli-developed exoskeleton suit. Gizmodo reports that the company is working with insurers and other health care coverage providers to ensure individuals eligible to use the ReWalk are able to purchase a system.”

Learn more about the ReWalk below: