Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Michael Russold is a leading researcher in rehabilitation robotics and neuroprosthetics, with a focus on restoring upper limb function after stroke and developing assistive technologies for mobility. His major contributions center on hybrid robotic systems that combine passive exoskeletons with electromyographic (EMG)-controlled functional electrical stimulation (FES), enabling stroke survivors to regain arm and hand movement through active, patient-driven therapy. His most cited work, "A Hybrid Robotic System for Arm Training of Stroke Survivors" (48 citations), introduced a novel approach that integrates EMG-triggered FES with a passive exoskeleton for upper limb suspension, demonstrating significant potential for rehabilitation. Russold also advanced myoelectric control with his study on "Long-term decoding of movement force and direction with a wireless myoelectric implant" (41 citations), which improved the reliability and information content of signals for hand prostheses. He played a key role in the European RETRAINER project, developing systems that allow patients to use their own limbs as much as possible during recovery. Additionally, his work on the SPEXOR project addresses low back pain prevention through spinal exoskeletons, and he has explored energy recuperation at the hip joint for paraplegic walking. With over 160 citations across his publications, Russold’s research is pivotal in making rehabilitation more effective and accessible, bridging robotics, neuroprosthetics, and clinical practice.