Questions we hear often.
Short answers about what Vita is, who it is for, what it costs and when it will be ready.
What is Vita?
A rehabilitation station built on a robot arm (a Flexiv Rizon 4). Patients train the exercises their specialist sets, and the arm measures every repetition: reach, angle and force.
Who is it for?
People recovering after a stroke, shoulder problems or a knee or hip replacement, once they have left the hospital or rehab centre. Their specialist decides if Vita fits.
Does a physiotherapist need to be there?
No. The patient's specialist sets the plan and limits in advance. On site, a trained staff member of the gym, care home or centre keeps an eye on the station.
How long is a session?
Usually 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the plan and how long the rests are. Patients do three or four exercises, each in 3 to 4 sets of about 8 to 12 repetitions, with 45 seconds to 2 minutes of rest between sets. Their specialist sets the exact numbers.
Is it safe?
Every exercise has fixed limits on force, speed and range. One red button stops the arm at once. Vita does not train walking or balance, and is not used with unhealed fractures or acute pain.
What does it cost?
A location buys the station for $25–35k or rents it. Members pay a monthly Vita subscription. At about 4 hours of use a day, a station could pay for itself in under a year; these figures are estimates.
How long does the arm last?
Collaborative robot arms are typically rated for about 35,000 hours of use, with a yearly service. Flexiv's own figure for the Rizon 4 is still to be confirmed.
Who sees the results?
The patient sees their progress in the Vita app. The weekly report goes to the physiotherapist or rehabilitation centre where they are enrolled. Everything is kept in secure storage and encrypted.
Can I use Vita today?
Not yet. Vita is in development and is likely a medical device under EU rules. A pilot and certification come before it is used with patients.