Robotic Device Gives "A Leg Up" On Walking

Last year, The Early Show spoke with Honda's humanoid robot ASIMO, who conducted the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Now, Honda is using some of the same technology to help people who have trouble walking.

David Iida from Honda shared the latest details on the prototype "Stride Management Assist."

Both sides of the device have hip angle sensors, which send data to a computer located in the small of the back, telling it how to make a person's legs move better.

"And the end result is it lengthens your stride and helps your walking rhythms," Iida added.

Iida, along with CBS News medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton, went on to discuss its dramatic results.

According to Ashton, this device doesn't just help with the motor functions of the elderly, stroke victims and those with spinal cord injuries or Parkinson's disease, but it can also help children who have cerebral palsy.

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