Something new is changing lives at Venture Physical Therapy (VPT), also known as Venture Rehab. A family run small business started in 2008 and now with three clinics on Maui and the sole physical therapy (PT) practice on Lānaʻi, VPT clinics are the only ones in the state that currently utilize exoskeleton technology from Ekso Bionics. By developing wearable robotics to assist patients who have lost mobility, Ekso is helping thousands of individuals take millions of Ekso-aided steps. 

Ekso’s robotic exoskeleton, EksoSkeleton, is designed to reteach the brain and muscles to properly walk again. It allows patients who are unable to walk to experience walking safely and also helps individuals who are able to walk to regain a natural gait. FDA-approved for a wide variety of conditions that affect mobility, including brain injury, stroke, spinal cord injury, Parkinson’s disease, neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis, the EksoSkeleton allows patients to practice balancing, shifting weight, squatting, walking backwards, and stepping in place.   

“The Ekso is exciting because it represents a level of technology and care not seen in the state before,” said Dr. Ted Anderson, owner of VPT and winner of the 2022 Mayor’s Small Business Award. “It provides a huge opportunity to continue to strengthen neural pathways long after muscles fatigue. Plus, the incredible thing about the Ekso is watching the overwhelming joy of patients and their families as they take their first steps.” 

VPT physical therapist Talia Petersen shared, “The Ekso is a wonderful representation of how technology and physiology come together to elevate our treatment. It is specially programmed to both support and challenge the patient to improve their walking pattern.” 

Lisa Selman noted about her sister Sharon’s physical therapy, “This exoskeleton was a game-changer for my sister, who was diagnosed with severe traumatic brain injury and left-side injuries from a pedestrian accident. It kick-started her recovery by reestablishing the brain-body signals and connections. To have had access to such amazing rehabilitation technology through Venture Rehab has made a huge difference in her ability to use a walker and regain greater mobility and independence.” 

For more information, go to venturerehab.com or follow VPT on social media, @venturerehab.