Bone tissue needs to be exposed to loading in order to stimulate the osteogenic response of the body. Disabilities that lead to prolonged immobility will result in a decrease of the osteogenic processes and an increase in resorption of bone by osteoclast cells. This disuse modeling can lead to osteopenia, osteoporosis, and subsequent non-traumatic fractures. These disabilities are varied in nature and duration, and can include load bearing bone fracture, excessive obesity, spinal cord injury, and cerebral palsy.

The following describes the concept and design of a novel dynamic supine stander that will provide loads simulating ambulation to the lower extremities of subjects that have disabilities causing prolonged immobility. The device provides full body support while using computer-controlled actuators to apply the loads.

The current configuration is meant for pediatric cerebral palsy patients. These patients are prone to osteoporosis due to disuse modeling of their bones from prolonged immobility. The device can be reconfigured for different body types and sizes.