A gait orthotic device, such as a powered exoskeleton, includes at least one joint at least one actuator configured to cause movement of the device at the joint a cushioning mechanism coupled to the device for absorbing energy or spreading a force during an impact with a surface or object and a controller. The controller is configured to determine when a fall is occurring and direct the actuator to: orient the device so the cushioning mechanism makes contact with the surface or object during the fall or reduce a kinetic energy of the device during the fall by performing positive joint work. The cushioning mechanism can take various forms, including an airbag, a spring, a bumper, a roll bar or a kickstand. Preferably, the cushioning mechanism is an airbag in the form of an airbag module that is detachably coupled to the device for removal and replacement.
