6 exoskeleton myths, put to the test

"It's reimbursed", "it replaces your muscles", "it's Iron Man armour"... Six common beliefs about exoskeletons, checked one by one against our sources.

Introduction: between fantasy and real products

The exoskeleton comes with its share of myths, somewhere between the science-fiction film and the sometimes exaggerated promises of some advertising. Here are six common claims, checked one by one against our own sourced questions.

Chapter 1: "It's armour that gives you superhuman strength"

This is the most widespread image, and the furthest from commercial reality. The exoskeletons actually sold today, including for military use, remain systems that target one joint or one specific posture, not full-body armour: see our article on military exoskeletons.

Chapter 2: "It's covered by health insurance"

As a rule, no, for a sports or comfort exoskeleton. In France, only products on the national health insurance's LPP list are reimbursed, and we found no exoskeleton of this kind on it. Details in our question on reimbursement.

Chapter 3: "It replaces your muscles, you get weaker"

France's occupational health institute (INRS) does mention a risk of muscle deconditioning with prolonged, permanent use, but this is neither automatic nor demonstrated for occasional use. Details in our question on muscle weakening.

Chapter 4: "It's a certified medical device"

That depends entirely on the product and on what the manufacturer declares. A sports exoskeleton is not automatically a medical device; some, like the Stoko K1, claim this status in certain countries, which remains a claim to check. See our question on medical device status.

Chapter 5: "It cures osteoarthritis or back pain"

This is not medical advice. No product in our catalogue is presented as a treatment. An exoskeleton can ease a movement or a posture, not cure a condition: the medical decision lies with your doctor.

Chapter 6: "We have years of hindsight on the effects"

No: according to the INRS, these technologies are relatively recent, with industrial adoption starting around 2015 in France and few long-lasting deployments from which to judge long-term effects. Details in our question on the available hindsight.

Frequently asked questions

Should you distrust every exoskeleton sold online?

No, but read the claims critically and check the sources cited, especially for anything health-related.

Where can you find sourced answers about a specific product?

Visit our questions and answers centre, which covers more than 80 specific questions, each with its sources.