Natsuka Masuno
Papers
1
Total Citations
10
H-Index
1
About
Dr. Natsuka Masuno is a leading researcher in rehabilitation robotics and neuromuscular medicine, best known for pioneering work with the Hybrid Assistive Limb (HAL)—a voluntary-driven wearable cyborg that restores mobility in patients with neuromuscular diseases. Her most-cited study (2021, 10 citations) demonstrated that gait training with HAL significantly improves quality of life in patients who can walk independently with aids, marking a critical step toward practical, patient-centered robotic rehabilitation. Dr. Masuno’s research bridges the gap between advanced exoskeleton technology and real-world clinical outcomes, focusing on how wearable cyborgs can enhance functional independence, reduce fall risk, and boost psychosocial well-being. Her contributions have helped establish evidence-based protocols for HAL therapy in conditions such as spinal muscular atrophy and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. By quantifying both motor gains and patient-reported quality-of-life improvements, she has shaped how rehabilitation robotics are evaluated and adopted in clinical settings. Dr. Masuno’s work continues to inspire interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, physiotherapists, and neurologists, positioning her as a key figure in the movement to make assistive robotics accessible and impactful for patients with chronic neuromuscular conditions.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1