WalkAide Neurotronic Orthosis

WalkAide is a class II, FDA-cleared medical device manufactured in the USA and designed to improve walking ability in people experiencing foot drop caused by upper motor neuron injuries or conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Stroke (CVA), Cerebral Palsy (CP), Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

The WalkAide system utilizes patented tilt sensor technology and functional electrical stimulation (FES) to analyse the movement of the leg and stimulate the appropriate nerves, prompting the foot to lift with every step. The gentle electrical impulses produced by WalkAide activate the muscles to raise the foot at the appropriate time during the step cycle, creating a more natural and efficient walking pattern.

Although WalkAide is a highly advanced medical device, it is surprisingly small and discreet, and quite easy to use. It consists of a battery-operated, single-channel electrical stimulator, two electrodes, and electrode leads. WalkAide is applied directly to the leg — not implanted under the skin — and can be worn discreetly under most clothing. A cuff holds the system in place. No surgery is required. Every WalkAide is programmed and fitted by a trained clinician. WalkAide is not a "one size fits all" device; it is personalized for every patient's individual gait, activity level and foot drop severity.

A WalkAide-trained clinician uses a special programming and follow-up software called Walk-Analyst to program the WalkAide to specific settings that would result in optimal outcomes. The clinician first adjusts the electrodes and cuff placement, then programs the WalkAide setting via the Walk Analyst software. After the initial setting, walk tests are performed to re-adjust the WalkAide parameters for optimal outcomes.