Cadence Biomedical improves Kickstart walking system

SAN DIEGO, Calif., Jan. 23, 2013–Cadence Biomedical announces a new version of their Kickstart orthosis that debuted at the annual American Physical Therapy Association conference in San Diego. Kickstart is a revolutionary wearable device that helps people with weakened muscles or disabilities regain mobility and independence. The new, diagnostic version of Kickstart will allow physical therapists to try the device on a variety of patients and see its positive impact prior to a custom fitting, making it easier for therapists to recommend the walking system for patients.

“The response from patients using Kickstart has been extraordinary. We’re seeing people leave their wheelchairs behind and do things they never imagined,” said Brian Glaister, president and CEO of Seattle-based Cadence Biomedical. “So many physical therapists have told us that ‘seeing is believing,’ which is why we’ve created this adjustable version which gives them the opportunity to see how quickly and easily Kickstart can benefit each patient before purchasing a custom device. Kickstart has the potential to get millions of people walking again.”

Kickstart is an affordable solution for stroke victims and patients with partial spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis or muscular dystrophy. The revolutionary walking system uses no motors, batteries or expensive robotics, but instead stores kinetic energy in the beginning of the step and then returns it at the end to actively guide and propel the legs for a smooth, efficient step each time. “I’m a stroke survivor and I spent 11 years in a power wheelchair. Now I get up every morning, put on my Kickstart, and I have never looked back,” said Albert Azizian.

The Kickstart orthosis allows patients to rediscover greater independence and regain the ability to walk for daily activities. It is designed to retrain muscles that may have atrophied, and increase endurance during rehabilitation and physical therapy. Cadence Biomedical is conducting clinical studies aimed at further quantifying Kickstartʼs benefits with partner academic institutions and expects to begin reporting data in late 2013. Clinicians interested in learning more about Kickstart and setting up a patient evaluation clinic can contact the Cadence team at 877-484-7513 or www.cadencebiomedical.com.