Hi guys, its’ Alex! I was recently asked to go back to MRU for another speaking engagement to demo the Trexo. I was able to tell the students all about my journey as a person living with cerebral palsy. They were very interested in the Trexo robotic walking devise as they are studying Innovations to assist people with disabilities. They liked how the Trexo was able to help someone in a wheelchair, be able to walk. It was so much fun sharing my story and many of them came up to chat afterwards. It was great and I hope I’ll get invited back again.
Walking Forward with Technology: My Experience with the Trexo Robotic Gait Trainer at Mount Royal University Calgary
As someone living with cerebral palsy, I’ve faced lots of challenges, especially when it comes to mobility. But recently, I had an incredible experience that I wanted to share with you all. I was able to take my Trexo to Mount Royal University (MRU) in Calgary to do a presentation about how robotic walking works and the muscle groups involved. Let me tell you all about it!
The Robotic Walking Presentation: A Lesson in Muscle Groups
The focus of my presentation was to explain the muscle groups involved in facilitating robotic walking. I broke it down for the students, highlighting the key muscles that the Trexo engages:
- Quadriceps: These are crucial for straightening the knees and supporting the weight during walking.
- Hamstrings: These muscles help in bending the knees and also play a role in controlling the movement.
- Calf Muscles: Essential for pushing off the ground and providing the forward propulsion needed in walking.
- Glutes: The powerhouse of the lower body, these muscles help with stability and forward movement.
- Core Muscles: They are vital for maintaining balance and posture during walking.
Explaining how each muscle group works along with the Trexo was an enlightening experience for the students and me. It was amazing to see their interest in how this technology helps me.
Demonstrating the Trexo
After I presented my info on the Trexo, it was time for the practical demonstration. I showed the students how the Trexo worked, attaching it to my legs and demonstrating its functionality. It was exciting and they liked watching the robotic gait trainer in action.
One of the highlights was showing how I can walk backwards with the Trexo. This feature not only showcases the versatility of the device but also the advanced technology behind it. Walking backwards isn’t something I ever thought I’d be able to do, and it was great to share that moment with the students.
The students were genuinely interested in the Trexo and asked many insightful questions. We discussed how technology like this has improved my quality of life and the potential for future advancements. I talked about how I was in chronic pain since I was 15, prior to using the device. The Trexo has been a life changing machine for me as walking in it has removed that terrible knee paid I had for years. It was a rewarding experience to see how my presentation inspired them to think about how technology and health devices help people like me.
Looking Forward
Sharing my experience with the Trexo at MRU was more than just a presentation; it was a testament to the progress we’re making in assistive technology. It’s a reminder that with innovation and determination, we can overcome obstacles and improve lives. I’m excited to continue exploring what the future holds and to keep sharing my journey with you all.
Thank you for reading, and remember, keep moving forward – even if sometimes, like me, you have to take a few steps backward to appreciate how far you’ve come.