The Role of Assistive Technology in Locomotor Disabilities: A Comprehensive Review

Background: Locomotor disabilities are among the leading causes of functional limitation globally, resulting from congenital, acquired, degenerative, or traumatic conditions.Assistive technology (AT) has become central to enhancing independence, mobility, and participation.Objective: This review examines the evolution, types, clinical effectiveness, and future directions of AT relevant to locomotor disability.Materials and methods: A narrative review of literature from major databases (2008-2025) was conducted, focusing on prosthetics, orthotics, wheelchairs, mobility aids, robotics, wearable sensors, and digital assistive ecosystems using major databases such as PubMed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and Google Scholar.Key themes, technological functionalities, clinical outcomes, and future directions were analyzed.Results: A total of 729 records were identified through database searches.Out of 120 full-text articles assessed for eligibility, 41 studies met all inclusion criteria and were included for analysis after excluding the papers that did not match the study scope or lacked relevant keywords in their titles or abstracts.Assistive technology has become central to locomotor disability management.The evolution from purely mechanical devices to digital and robotic systems represents a paradigm shift in rehabilitation engineering.Mobility aids, advanced wheelchairs, prosthetic and orthotic devices, robotic exoskeletons, and sensor-based rehabilitation technology all demonstrate measurable improvements in gait, stability, functional independence, and quality of life.AI-enabled AT and personalized digital health tools represent emerging, transformative approaches.Conclusion: Assistive technology plays a vital role in locomotor disability management.Innovations integrating biomechanics, digital health, and robotics will continue to redefine mobility rehabilitation, especially if cost and accessibility challenges are addressed.