A robotic exoskeleton has been created by Japanese researchers to allow nurses to lift patients effortlessly and without damaging their backs.
How it works:

Sensor pads taped to the major muscle groups calculate how much force you need to pick up a patient. As you lift, the sensors send data to a microcomputer that triggers a bunch of concertina-like limb and body actuators powered by compressed air.

These move slowly and create low mechanical stress, giving someone as much or as little help as they need.

The computer simply works out when the nurse’s limbs and joints have enough artificial support, allowing them to continue working, but effortlessly.