REX & PhysioFunction launch Physiotherapy Service

Rex Bionics plc

("Rex Bionics" or the "Company")

PhysioFunction launches first Robot-assisted Physiotherapy Service, using REX

9 December 2014 Rex Bionics plc (AIM: RXB), the pioneer of the REX Robot technology that enhances the mobility of wheel-chair users, and PhysioFunction, one of the UK's leading providers of specialist hands-on Neurological Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Technology services, are pleased to announce the launch by PhysioFunction of the UK's first physiotherapy service using the REX technology for people with mobility impairment

PhysioFunction will provide regular out-patient clinics at the state-of-the-art Chris Moody Centre at Moulton College, Northamptonshire, on a private payer basis; and progressively at PhysioFunction's 14 other neurological physiotherapy facilities in the Midlands, London and Yorkshire.

During Robot-Assisted Physiotherapy (RAP), REX lifts patients from a sitting position into a robot-supported standing position, allowing them to take part in a set of supported walking and stretching exercises designed by specialist physiotherapists.

Wheelchair users are at risk of developing numerous medical complications from extended periods of sitting. By enabling them to spend more time standing, walking and exercising, REX may offer significant health benefits, including improved cardiovascular performance, maintenance of joint range, and a reduction in infections1 .

PhysioFunction will also act as a Reference Centre for the REX technology, collecting the clinical data which will help to demonstrate the benefits of the technology; and will act as a Test Centre for wheelchair users from the UK and overseas who are considering purchasing or leasing a REX.

Crispin Simon, Chief Executive of Rex Bionics, said: "We are delighted to marry our REX technology with PhysioFunction's treatment expertise. REX has caught the public imagination and we hope that this will enable the widest possible range of people to have access to its quality of life benefits."

Jon Graham, Chief Executive of PhysioFunction, said: "Exoskeletons offer significant benefits for the management of secondary complications for wheelchair users compared with conventional rehabilitation methods. REX offers additional benefits to the user, because unlike other exoskeletons which require the use of crutches or a walking frame for stability, it allows users to retain the use of their hands."

Anna Turney, Paralympic Skier from Northampton, the first patient to be treated with RAP by PhysioFunction, said: "It was great to try the REX with Jon Graham at PhysioFunction. If felt very strange to be upright, but I know I'm in safe hands with PhysioFunction." 

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For further information please contact:

Rex Bionics Plc

Crispin Simon, Chief Executive Officer

+44 (0) 781 086 6386

Peter Worrall, Chief Financial Officer

+44 (0)1428 645416

Oriel Securities Limited (NOMAD and Broker)

Juliet Thompson/Jonathan Senior

+44 (0) 20 7710 7600

Consilium Strategic Communications

Mary-Jane Elliott / Jessica Hodgson / Lindsey Neville

[email protected]

+44 (0) 203 709 5700

About Rex Bionics plc

Rex Bionics (AIM: RXB) is the AIM-listed pioneer of the REX Robot that enhances the mobility of wheel-chair users. Founded in Auckland, New Zealand by two robotics engineers with first-hand experience of wheelchair users and their needs, Rex Bionics is working with physiotherapists to develop the practice of Robot-Assisted Physiotherapy (RAP). In a session of RAP, REX lifts patients from a sitting position into a robot-supported standing position, allowing them to take part in a set of supported walking and stretching exercises, designed by specialist physiotherapists. 

Wheelchair users are at risk of developing numerous medical complications from extended periods of sitting. By enabling them to spend more time standing, walking and exercising, REX may offer significant health benefits, including improved sleep, cardiovascular performance, maintenance of joint range, and a reduction in common abdominal problems and prescription drug use. A programme of clinical trials is now under way to evaluate these potential benefits. 

REX is used by people with complete spinal cord injury, as well as people who have suffered a stroke or other traumatic brain injury; and people with multiple sclerosis and muscular dystrophy. REX P, for use in the home, enables users to walk and stand with their hands free - providing more work and recreation options. 

In May 2014, Rex Bionics joined AIM with a fundraising of £10 million (gross) to scale up production, distribution and marketing internationally, in order to support growing demand for both REX products as well as developing the next generation of REX devices, REX 3.

The use of REX in the home is not approved in the United States of America.

 For more information please visit, www.rexbionics.com