BACPAC: Wearable robotic apparel for alleviating low back pain

In this clinical study conducted at the Boston University Physical Therapy Center by researchers from Boston University and Harvard University, patients with lower back pain get to wear a new robotic exosuit during Physical Therapy sessions.

We are enrolling individuals between the ages of 18-70 who have lower back pain to assess whether a new robotic device can be used during physical therapy to help individuals with lower back pain recover. Specifically, participants will complete a 6-week course of physical therapy while wearing a robotic backpack (called an exosuit) to assist their movements during a portion of each session. In doing so, we aim to identify the usefulness of this device in augmenting traditional physical therapy care of patients with lower back pain and whether it helps improve pain and disability.

If you are interested or have any questions, you can fill out the information below or contact the research team at 617-358-3700 or backexo@bu.edu, and someone from our team will contact you.

For more information about this clinical trial, please visit the ClinicalTrials.gov website: Translation of Robotic Apparel for Alleviating Low Back Pain.

Principal Investigator

Team

Conor Walsh, PhD
Co-Investigator, Adjunct Associate Professor

Diane Dalton, PT, DPT, OCS
Co-Investigator, Clinical Associate Professor

Adam Quirk, PhD
Technical Lead, Postdoctoral Fellow

James “Cam” Camarinos, PT, DPT
Co-Investigator, Research Physical Therapist

Caleigh O’Brien, DPT, OCS
Research Physical Therapist

Trace Sears, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT
Research Physical Therapist

Johanna Spangler, PT, DPT
Research Coordinator, Lab Manager

Xamantha Tjakra, BSc
Research Coordinator