Tackling mobility challenges is increasingly important globally as the population ages and chronic health conditions become more prevalent. Advanced robotic exoskeletons offer transformative possibilities for individuals with severe mobility impairments, reduce caregiver burdens, improve patient outcomes, and redefine quality of life.
Wandercraft, a pioneer in exoskeleton technology, is at the forefront of this transformation. It has gained international recognition as a finalist for a 2025 SXSW Innovation Award and was featured by NVIDIA as a key member of its ecosystem at CES 2025.
The Personal Exoskeleton harnesses billions of cutting-edge simulations to help users regain the ability to walk, balance, and engage with their environment in ways once thought impossible.
Wandercraft CEO Matthieu Masselin spoke recently with Cure, sharing his insights into the trends, opportunities, and innovations reshaping the mobility landscape. A French company, Wandercraft has its U.S. headquarters at Cure’s healthcare innovation campus in New York City.
Leverage New Technologies for Mobility
Integrating robotics into physical therapy and rehabilitation is already revolutionizing care for patients with mobility impairments. Wandercraft’s exoskeletons allow individuals who cannot walk to stand upright and move with natural, fluid motions. This AI-enabled technology is a breakthrough not only for patients with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and other conditions but also for healthcare providers and caregivers.
“We are developing complex products like the Personal Exoskeleton that are easy to use, and—most importantly—are enjoyable to use,” said Masselin. “Our vision is to create solutions that surprise and delight patients, enhancing their physical movement and overall life experience.”
The potential of this technology extends beyond individual patients; healthcare systems also stand to benefit. Robotic exoskeletons can reduce hospital costs for locomotor training and deliver better outcomes.
Reducing Caregiver Burdens with Technology
Daily life is often defined by limitations for patients with mobility impairments. Traditional mobility aids are either too cumbersome, require significant physical effort, or rely heavily on caregiver involvement. Wandercraft aims to break through these barriers.
“By incorporating robotic exoskeletons into therapy regimens, we can significantly reduce the burden on physical therapists and caregivers,” said Masselin. “With devices like our Personal Exoskeleton, the goal is to empower patients while offering tangible relief to those caring for them—whether in clinical settings, rehabilitation centers, or at home.”
As Baby Boomers age and the prevalence of chronic conditions increases, the demand for effective mobility solutions is growing. Yet, there are real and perceived barriers to adoption.
“People are often overwhelmed by existing solutions—they’re either too complex, too physically demanding, or not advanced enough. Until now the technology hadn’t caught up to people’s imaginations.” Masselin explained. “Our mission is to create tools that fit into real life, making mobility accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable for everyone who needs it.”
For caregivers, the impact of these devices can be equally transformative. The physical demands placed on caregivers, such as lifting or repositioning individuals multiple times a day, can be decreased significantly. Reducing physical strain can help alleviate burnout, allowing caregivers to focus on emotional support or other responsibilities. Additionally, the ability of non-walking persons to more independently navigate their environment can provide caregivers with a bit of relief.
“Caregivers often shoulder immense physical and emotional responsibilities,” said Masselin. “We aim for our exoskeletons to help lighten that load, creating opportunities for caregivers to focus on their own well-being while continuing to provide the compassionate support their loved ones need.”
Paying Attention to Preventative Care for Non-Walking People
One of the biggest gaps Masselin identifies is preventative medicine for non-walking individuals. Prolonged immobility can lead to numerous secondary conditions, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, bowel spasticity, and pressure ulcers. Addressing these issues through advanced mobility technology presents a critical opportunity.
“Very little attention is paid to preventative care for non-walking individuals,” Masselin noted. “They are often among the most expensive patients for healthcare systems to care for. By enabling movement, we can help prevent complications, improve quality of life, and reduce the overall burden on healthcare systems. That’s exactly what preventative medicine is meant to do.”
Elevating the Patient Experience from Access to Engagement
Discussions about mobility impairments frequently focus on accessibility—ensuring ramps, elevators, and other accommodations are available. While these are essential, Masselin believes the conversation needs to evolve.
“Whenever issues about non-walking persons come up, they’re often framed around the bare minimum of accessibility,” said Masselin. “Are there enough ramps? Is there a working elevator? Critical elements of navigating the world. But we need to think bigger. It’s not just about improving their environment. It’s about re-instating their experience of life—both in the world around them and in the body they have.”
The ability to move upright can be transformational for someone who has been unable to stand or walk for years. Beyond physical health, exoskeletons foster a renewed sense of opportunity and connection with the world. Standing face-to-face during conversations, walking through a park, or navigating spaces independently redefines what is possible.
“Ultimately, our goal is to give people the tools to reimagine what’s possible,” said Masselin. “We’re not just building devices—we’re enabling life-changing experiences."