Exoskeletons have long been a thing of science fiction – last year’s Elysium, for example, featured them heavily. In reality, though, they could help the recovery of paralysed patients.

ReWalk Robotics, an Israeli company that recently filed to go public, manufactures special robotic exoskeletons designed to assist with walking and other actions. Their ReWalk Personal System can help individuals with lower spine injuries walk again – albeit in a limited way.

It uses an array of sensors and motors and is operated remotely. The cost, though, is still high – around $69,000 (£50,000) and is only licensed for use in rehabilitation hospitals in the US.

For users, it can make a world of difference. Being able to get out of a wheelchair and look at someone face to face is incredibly life changing. The technology has only begun but has already made a world of difference.