Bhat, Shilpy, Gavin, James Peter, Warner, Martin and Myall, Michelle (2025) Mapping the evidence on occupational exoskeleton use for the workforce in healthcare, social care, and industry: A systematic scoping review. Wearable Technologies, 6, [e53]. (doi:10.1017/wtc.2025.10033).
Abstract
Musculoskeletal disorders remain a leading occupational health challenge in physically demanding sectors such as healthcare, social care, and industry. Exoskeletons – wearable devices designed to mitigate physical strain are increasingly explored as potential solutions; however, factors affecting their adoption in real-world settings remain underexplored. This novel scoping review systematically maps the existing evidence on the application of commercially available exoskeletons within real and simulated work environments, focusing on usage patterns, user experiences, and factors influencing implementation.
Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for scoping reviews, a systematic literature search was conducted across the Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE, with an initial search in May 2023 and an update in May 2024. Forty-nine papers met the inclusion criteria based on the Population, Concept, and Context (PCC) framework. Data were extracted using a standardized form and synthesized descriptively, thematically, and through content analysis. Results are presented in narrative, tabular, and conceptual map formats.
Exoskeletons were used most frequently in industry (manufacturing) and perioperative care (healthcare). Although, the devices reduced muscle load during repetitive or static tasks, adoption was constrained by discomfort and fit challenges, thermal burden, and limited usability in dynamic settings. Thematic analysis revealed how user experiences were shaped by professional identity, task compatibility, organizational support, and social norms. A conceptual map synthesized sector-specific and cross-sectoral barriers and facilitators.
This review highlights the need for inclusive, context-sensitive, and longitudinal research to support safe, acceptable, and effective exoskeleton adoption and implementation across diverse occupational environments.
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