[ARTICLE] A Neuromuscular Interface for Robotic Devices Control – Full Text

Abstract

A neuromuscular interface (NI) that can be employed to operate external robotic devices (RD), including commercial ones, was proposed. Multichannel electromyographic (EMG) signal is used in the control loop. Control signal can also be supplemented with electroencephalography (EEG), limb kinematics, or other modalities. The multiple electrode approach takes advantage of the massive resources of the human brain for solving nontrivial tasks, such as movement coordination. Multilayer artificial neural network was used for feature classification and further to provide command and/or proportional control of three robotic devices. The possibility of using biofeedback can compensate for control errors and implement a fundamentally important feature that has previously limited the development of intelligent exoskeletons, prostheses, and other medical devices. The control system can be integrated with wearable electronics. Examples of technical devices under control of the neuromuscular interface (NI) are presented.

1. Introduction

Development of neurointerface technology is a topical scientific focus, with the demand for such systems driven by the need for humans to communicate with numerous electronic computing and robotic devices (RD), for example, in medical applications such as prosthetic limbs and exoskeletons. At present, multichannel recording of neuromuscular activity and the development of neurointerface applications that implement unique mechanisms for high-dimensional data processing are areas of major interest.

One of the most suitable signals aiming at controlling external RDs is electromyographic (EMG) activity. Multichannel signals from the human peripheral nervous system have been previously successfully used to control external devices and novel methods of EMG acquisition and control strategies have recently been implemented [1–8]. When controlling anthropomorphic RD, the human pilot independently coordinates and plans the trajectory of motion using the massive computing power of the human brain [9, 10]. The use of afferent neural pathways allows the activation of biological feedback; using this principle is fundamentally important to the development of rehabilitation exoskeletons, prostheses, and various other medical applications.

The disadvantages of using EMG interfaces in rehabilitation are the presence of muscle fatigue and insufficient residual muscle activity. On the other hand electroencephalographic (EEG) interfaces proved to be the best due to a direct link to the nervous system by measurement of brain activity during therapy [11, 12]. The brain mechanisms that enable humans to facilitate the control of external devices remain largely unknown. However, despite this knowledge gap, appropriate collection, detection, and classification can enable brain-controlled signals from the human body to be utilized for highly efficient and even intelligent control of multiparameter RDs. But brain-machine interfaces (BMI) have some limitations such as low reliability and accuracy when it comes to complex functional task training.

A possible solution to these problems is the combined use of the advantages of both types of interfaces. Such interfaces are called hybrid, for example, hybrid BMI (hBMI); the use of EMG input here can lead to a more accurate classification of EEG patterns [13–15]. However, the task of developing an EMG interface is still relevant.

Considering the problem of motion recognition and decoding of EMG signals, note that there are several generally applicable methods of software signal processing: linear discriminant analysis (LDA) [20], support vector machines (SVM) [21], artificial neural networks (ANN) [22], fuzzy algorithms [22, 23], etc.

Despite significant progress in the field of machine learning and its application in medical tasks [24], algorithms are still based on applying ANN technologies and solving optimization problems. Creation of a universal algorithm that can adapt to different conditions in a technical control system was proven theoretically impossible, at least in the context of existing theories [25, 26]. Compared to traditionally controlled electronic devices, neurocontrolled devices may offer the advantage of adapting due to human brain plasticity.

The present study focuses on the development of methods and technologies for remote control of RDs in specific applications. The objective was to integrate human bioelectrical signals into a control loop. Online collection and interpretation of multisite EMG signals were performed to control a variety of robotic systems. Technical solutions were developed to associate patterns of muscular activity (and human brain, if possible) with the commands to the controlled object by employing a user-defined translation algorithm. EMG interface solution is driven by multilayer ANN feature classifier. User-defined programmable function translates sensory signals into motor commands to successfully control a variety of existing commercial RDs.[…]

Continue —> A Neuromuscular Interface for Robotic Devices Control

[Review Article] Do Robotics and Virtual Reality Add Real Progress to Mirror Therapy Rehabilitation? A Scoping Review – Full Text

Abstract

Background. Mirror therapy has been used in rehabilitation for multiple indications since the 1990s. Current evidence supports some of these indications, particularly for cerebrovascular accidents in adults and cerebral palsy in children. Since 2000s, computerized or robotic mirror therapy has been developed and marketed.Objectives. To map the extent, nature, and rationale of research activity in robotic or computerized mirror therapy and the type of evidence available for any indication. To investigate the relevance of conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis on these therapies. Method. Systematic scoping review. Searches were conducted (up to May 2018) in the Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, IEEE Xplore, Medline, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, and PsycINFO databases. References from identified studies were examined. Results. In sum, 75 articles met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were publicly funded (57% of studies; n = 43), without disclosure of conflict of interest (59% of studies; n = 44). The main outcomes assessed were pain, satisfaction on the device, and body function and activity, mainly for stroke and amputees patients and healthy participants. Most design studies were case reports (67% of studies; n = 50), with only 12 randomized controlled trials with 5 comparing standard mirror therapy versus virtual mirror therapy, 5 comparing second-generation mirror therapy versus conventional rehabilitation, and 2 comparing other interventions. Conclusion. Much of the research on second-generation mirror therapy is of very low quality. Evidence-based rationale to conduct such studies is missing. It is not relevant to recommend investment by rehabilitation professionals and institutions in such devices.

1. Introduction

Mirror therapy was originally described by Ramachandran and Rogers-Ramachandran, who suggested its use in amputees with phantom limb pain [1]. They introduce an inexpensive new device: a mirror was placed vertically on a table so that the mirror reflection of the patient’s intact hand was superimposed on the felt position of the phantom [1]. This standard mirror therapy has been used in rehabilitation for multiple indications since the 1990s [2]. A good level of evidence supports some of these indications, particularly for cerebrovascular accidents in adults [3, 4] and cerebral palsy in children [5]. Cost is very low, because a simple little and not specifically dedicated mirror can be used [1]. Dedicated mirror boxes cost about $65 each [6].

Since 2000s, virtual reality or robot has been developed and marketed to treat various diseases as a more technologically sophisticated version of the standard mirror therapy introduced in 1996 [7, 8]. Robotic devices and virtual reality are increasingly used and assessed in rehabilitation and research [9, 10]. This second-generation devices are probably much more expensive than standard mirror therapy: they often present a technological complexity that requires investment, constant maintenance, and highly qualified operators [11]. Low cost virtual reality device costs about $252 to purchase [12]. Low cost robotic device for robotic gait rehabilitation was estimated to cost $25,000, which is less than 10% of the price of device currently available in Brazil for the same indication [13]. For some indications, virtual reality such as robotics has no greater effectiveness than more conventional techniques [14, 15]. Studies evaluating the impact on various outcomes of these mirror therapy devices exist [8, 16, 17], but no review summarizes the available data.

The purpose of this review was as follows: (1) to map the extent, nature, and rationale of research activity in robotic or computerized mirror therapy; (2) to summarize the main sources and types of evidence available about the effectiveness of these therapies for any indication; (3) to investigate the relevance of conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis on these therapies.[…]

Continue —>  Do Robotics and Virtual Reality Add Real Progress to Mirror Therapy Rehabilitation? A Scoping Review

 

[WEB SITE] Walking Rehabilitation with THERA-Trainer LYRA Robotic Gait Trainer

MOTIONrehab is the only centre in the UK that can offer walking rehabilitation with the THERA-Trainer LYRA robotic gait trainer.

An individual’s ability to participate in their day to day activities is often reliant on their ability to walk. Regaining the ability to walk is one of the main goals for individuals after a stroke, head injury or spinal cord injury. For people living with MS, Parkinson’s disease or other related neurological condition, maintaining the ability to stay on their feet and keep their independence is also a great concern. The more problems people have with walking, the more devastating the consequences of their illness. MOTIONrehab can change this. The Lyra is based on the scientifically established principles that high repetition and specific gait training results in greater therapy outcomes with 20% more patients being able to walk compared to traditional therapy approaches.

 The LYRA enables controlled cardiovascular training and the strengthening of the muscles needed for walking

When using the LYRA an individual’s feet are held in place on mobile footplates.  The movement of the footplates replicates natural walking patterns. This enables patients to make up to 40 times as many steps compared to treadmill training or manual walking practice. The LYRA provides body weight support which opens up the possibility of walking therapy for those people who are currently unable to walk or find walking difficult and can provide intensive training in a safe and effective environment. Whatever your ability the LYRA provides highly effective walking practice. It enables controlled cardiovascular training and strengthening of muscles needed for walking. Rehabilitation with MOTIONrehab and the LYRA will help any impaired individual to be gently guided back into daily life, step by step.

   “It’s amazing really. I don’t usually walk more than 12 steps per week and with the LYRA I am able to walk 135 steps in one session.” – MOTIONrehab Client

 

MOTIONrehab Intensive Rehabilitation Packages

MOTIONrehab’s Intensive Rehabilitation Programmes include 80 hours of neurological rehabilitation over 4-7 weeks dependant on the outcome of the initial assessment. MOTIONrehab recognises that everybody is different and may come to MOTIONrehab at different stages of their rehabilitation. Therefore, MOTIONrehab have three high-intensity rehabilitation options and you will be advised which is the most clinically appropriate. For more information about the Thera Trainer LYRA, High-Intensity Rehabilitation or to book an assessment, please call MOTIONrehab Client Services Team on 0800 8600 038 or email: info@motionrehab.co.uk

 

via Walking Rehabilitation with THERA-Trainer LYRA Robotic Gait Trainer

[NEWS] Moratuwa University develops ankle exoskeleton robot – Daily Mirror

2018-08-08 00:00:43

Amashi Weerasingha, Kasun Harshana and Kesara Withanage

Three students attached to the Bionics Laboratory of Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Moratuwa have developed an ankle exoskeleton robot. Named “C-JAE”, the robot is a wearable device which is able to carry out robotic rehabilitation and/or to provide locomotion assistance for human having mobility impairments. It combines human intelligence with mechanism to perform human ankle motions.

‘C-JAE’, the robot is a wearable device which is able to carry out robotic rehabilitation and/or to provide locomotion assistance for human having mobility impairment

The project has been carried out by final year undergraduates from the Department of Mechanical Engineering Amashi Weerasingha, Kasun Harshana and Kesara Withanage. It is supervised by Prof. Ruwan Gopura who is currently the youngest professor in Engineering in Sri Lanka and Head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Engineer Pubudu Ranaweera, the senior lecturer attached to the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Moratuwa. Prof. Ruwan Gopura following said “According to statistics around the globe, elderly populations have exceeded 10% of the total population. On the other hand, people who are suffering from neurological or muscular disorders have increased steadily. The medical industry has shown a growing interest in the use of exoskeleton robots to alleviate health care issues arising from locomotion difficulties. Considering all those facts the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the University of Moratuwa contribute their knowledge to address this issue and serve the society.

C-JAE is derived from the terms ‘Compatible Joint Ankle Exoskeleton’, meaning articulated robotic ankle exoskeleton with compatible joint axes to generate human ankle motions.The mechanism and drive units are placed anterior to foot and shank segments. C-JAE supports all three DOF at the ankle joint using novel mechanism, while ensuring joint axes mapping for full ranges of motion. It means, with the intention of maximizing user compatibility and performance, the proposed mechanism has compatible joint axes for each DOF.

“According to statistics around the globe, elderly populations have exceeded 10% of the total population. On the other hand, people who are suffering from neurological or muscular disorders have increased steadily and exoskeleton robots provide health care issues arising from locomotion difficulties

C-JAE weighs 2.6 kg without the battery pack, which is comparably light weight and user friendly than the existent devices.

• C-JAE weighs 2.6 kg without battery pack which is comparably light weight and user friendly
• It supports all three DOF at the ankle joint

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The novel feature of the C-JAE is its ability to comply with functional and ergonomic requirements of human ankle joint. In the initial stage the feasibility and performance of the C-JAE was evaluated using healthy male subjects, in the first stage of development. In the second stage, rehabilitation capability will be clinically tested with suitable patients’’

 

 

via Moratuwa University develops ankle exoskeleton robot – Daily Mirror – Sri Lanka Latest Breaking News and Headlines

[ARTICLE] Physical Extraction and Feature Fusion for Multi-Mode Signals in a Measurement System for Patients in Rehabilitation Exoskeleton – Full Text HTML

Abstract:

Measurement system of exoskeleton robots can reflect the state of the patient. In this study, we combined an inertial measurement unit and a visual measurement unit to obtain a repeatable fusion measurement system to compensate for the deficiencies of the single data acquisition mode used by exoskeletons. Inertial measurement unit is comprised four distributed angle sensors. Triaxial acceleration and angular velocity information were transmitted to an upper computer by Bluetooth. The data sent to the control center were processed by a Kalman filter to eliminate any noise. Visual measurement unit uses camera to acquire real time images and related data information. The two data acquisition methods were fused and have its weight. Comparisons of the fusion results with individual measurement results demonstrated that the data fusion method could effectively improve the accuracy of system. It provides a set of accurate real-time measurements for patients in rehabilitation exoskeleton and data support for effective control of exoskeleton robot.

1. Introduction

Rehabilitation exoskeletons robot are emerging as important components of the rehabilitation training process for patients affected by hemiplegia and cerebral apoplexy [1,2]. The rehabilitation training system comprises a lower extremity exoskeleton, where the robotics are employed for sensing, control, information fusion and mobile computing [3,4,5,6]. Accurate data from measurement systems can be provided to the feedback control of exoskeleton system. By combining human intelligence with the physical exoskeleton, the robotic system can complete tasks via a man-machine interaction. Therefore, the methods used in measurement systems for obtaining lower limb gesture is of great significance.

Worldwide famous exoskeleton robots have been equipped with related measurement system. The measurement system in the ReWalk exoskeleton [7] developed by an Israeli researcher sends grit data obtained from a gyroscope sensor to a data processing center. The HAL exoskeleton developed at Tsukuba University in Japan, the measurement system is based on acquiring and analyzing EMG signals [8] as well as plantar pressure signals from the wearer, through dividing the gait it can control each phase while walking. Ekso [9], developed by an American company, uses crutches with attached sensors as well as plantar pressure shoes and an upper limb accelerometer to detect the walking intentions of the wearer. However, these detection systems focus only on a single mode during information acquisition and their accuracy is difficult to verify. In addition, the information obtained by these sensor systems exhibits hysteresis. Previous studies have shown that the attitude error increases as objects move, which can be eliminated by an external tracking system, such as a sonar, laser, or vision system [10] and an optimal motion model can be established by continuously updating motion information through a Kalman filter with a linear distribution [11]. Moreover, an unscented Kalman filter was proposed where the current state is considered based on a Gaussian distribution, thereby allowing multi-sensor data fusion [12,13].

But in different occasions, the measurement system plays different role. Many soft or flexible sensors change the measurement system. According to the different motion capture devices can be divided into mechanical motion capture, physical inertial sensor motion capture, acoustic motion capture, electromagnetic motion capture, optical motion capture and depth camera motion capture six categories [14,15]. Besides, types of sensors based on Micro-MEMS inertial sensing technology, such as Xsens, have been developed in order to obtain high-precision results, which can be applied to motion capture system [16]. Also, plenty of attempts for applying soft or flexible sensors to motion detection or monitoring system has been made, like a sensing system capable for monitoring human body [17] and soft sensors that can monitor the movement of the wearer and robot outside the lab [18].

The measurement system developed in the present study included an inertial measurement unit system for measuring human gait movement data [19,20,21] and a visual measurement unit system for acquiring real-time walking gestures from video image sequences. The inertial measurement unit system can obtain motion inertia parameters during walking, including from the hip joint and knee joint, thereby determining the movement posture and kinematics equation. The visual measurement unit system extracts and tracks feature point sets in the environment with a single camera and then calculates the position and pose of the robot with the measurement model and by extended Kalman filtering. The two methods for gesture data acquisition are supplementary and they can improve the reliability of the detection system. The final information obtained by data fusion [22,23] is sent to the robot information processing center of the lower extremity exoskeleton via wireless transmission to provide an experimental platform and theoretical foundation for intelligent walking and feedback control for the lower extremity exoskeleton robot, so the human motion can be measured in real time and the corresponding feedback control can be facilitated. The detection system is also based on our previous experiments where we aimed to improve the comfort and safety for users of our rehabilitation training exoskeleton [24].

In our experiment condition, we included the whole walking phase in our examination as mentioned. Because VMU system and IMU system can compensate for each other, the fusing results is applicable to all walking phases, including the even stance phase. Theoretically, the detecting method can be implemented without distance or velocity limit, however, thanks to the vision limit and potential dislocation of IMU, the perfect application condition is limited to a stride frequency range from 0.5 m/s to 1.0 m/s. According to existing research, such range is suitable for test subject, who are mostly slowly-walking stroke patients.

Continue —>  Sensors | Free Full-Text | Physical Extraction and Feature Fusion for Multi-Mode Signals in a Measurement System for Patients in Rehabilitation Exoskeleton | HTML

Figure 3. Marker points employs (R: right, L: left, H: hip joint, K: knee joint and A: ankle joint).

[BLOG POST] Accurate seizure prediction possible for more people with epilepsy

Posted Aug 21 2018 in Epilepsy general / Living with epilepsy / Other treatments

Accurate seizure prediction is vital for people whose epilepsy remains uncontrolled. Thanks to the crowdsourcing of 10,000 algorithms worldwide researchers at the University of Melbourne are confident that clinically relevant epileptic seizure prediction is possible in a wider range of patients than previously thought.

“Our evaluation revealed on average a 90 per cent improvement in seizure prediction performance, compared to previous results,” Dr Kuhlmann, from the University of Melbourne said.

Furthermore, their findings support the use of patient-specific algorithms as their results showed different algorithms performed best for different patients.

You can read more about the research here:

 

via Accurate seizure prediction possible for more people with epilepsy | Epilepsy Research UK

[Abstract] Seizure prediction — ready for a new era

Abstract

Epilepsy is a common disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. An overwhelming majority of people with epilepsy regard the unpredictability of seizures as a major issue. More than 30 years of international effort have been devoted to the prediction of seizures, aiming to remove the burden of unpredictability and to couple novel, time-specific treatment to seizure prediction technology. A highly influential review published in 2007 concluded that insufficient evidence indicated that seizures could be predicted. Since then, several advances have been made, including successful prospective seizure prediction using intracranial EEG in a small number of people in a trial of a real-time seizure prediction device. In this Review, we examine advances in the field, including EEG databases, seizure prediction competitions, the prospective trial mentioned and advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of seizures. We argue that these advances, together with statistical evaluations, set the stage for a resurgence in efforts towards the development of seizure prediction methodologies. We propose new avenues of investigation involving a synergy between mechanisms, models, data, devices and algorithms and refine the existing guidelines for the development of seizure prediction technology to instigate development of a solution that removes the burden of the unpredictability of seizures.

 

Key points

• One clinical trial has shown that prospective seizure prediction in humans is possible.
• Databases of EEG data provide a standard reference for comparison of seizure prediction algorithms and for hypothesis generation.
• Competitions provide a platform for identification of the best seizure prediction algorithms.
• The network theory of epilepsy, multimodal recording techniques, long-term monitoring and computational modelling are providing new approaches to seizure prediction.
• The field is ready for a large-scale clinical trial of seizure prediction.

 

via Seizure prediction — ready for a new era | Nature Reviews Neurology

[WEB SITE] These Friendly Helpful Robots Will Likely Be Your Future Rehabilitation Partners

A new study has revealed that socially assistive robots (SARs), though already in use, will continue to see a rise as they become more suited to human relations.

 By  Mario L. Major August, 20th 2018

From K5s who patrols our local streets and parking areas to a host of bots which serve as personal assistants at home and on the go, programmable machines are increasingly entering our lives in new and dynamic ways. Still, the challenge of integrating robotics into heavily human-dependent labor such as retail and medical assistance remains a challenge.

INNOVATIONThis New Surgical Robot Can Drill into Human Skulls with Ease

Rehabilitation robots

A multidisciplinarian team of researchers at Freiburg University assessed the potential impact of robots in the area of physical rehabilitation in the future. The study, led by Dr. Philipp Kellmeyer, a neuroscientist in the University’s Medical Center, and Prof. Dr. Oliver Müller, a professor from the philosophy department found that socially assistive robots (SARs), though already in use, by all indications will be used increasingly more.

As the world’s population continues to grow, and with improved medical procedures improving post-op recovery rates and extending people’s average lifespan, SAR demand will inevitably increase.

Beyond continuing the research and development process to improve the technical capabilities of these helpful bots, much attention, the team concluded, should be given to developing strategies for how to create a relationship between SARs and patients. Few of us, especially those who have gone through the pain and frustration involved in physical rehabilitation, would disagree that the rapport with a health services professional becomes the main factor in maintaining the patient’s motivation.

Source: RAPP

Are we setting the bar too high for SARs?

Though SARs still serve as assistants in the rehabilitation process, not the main role, it is still crucial to clearly define just what that role will be, and what it will look like throughout the rehabilitation process. This is key as SARs assist patients in three different areas: people with cognitive disabilities, people who require rehabilitation, and ageing or elderly patients.

In a previous study titled “The Grand Challenges in Socially Assistive Robotics”, a team of researchers classified the most important components for effective SAR design in six categories:

The robot’s physical embodiment (including physical, responsive and cultural aspects)

Personality, which is, in essence, the main factor in achieving successful human-robot interactions

Empathy, which is a relative concept, is central. The researchers shared from their observations: “Machines cannot feel empathy. However, it is possible to create robots that display overt signs of empathy. In order to emulate empathy, a robotic system should be capable of recognizing the user’s emotional state, communicating with people, displaying emotion, and conveying the ability of taking perspective.”

The relative level of engagement with patients, which includes verbal and non-verbal communication

Adaptation, which involves learning from an environment and quickly implementing lessons into the patient interaction.

Transfer, which focuses on long-term behavioral changes of the SAR.

Though by no means trying to build the perfect robots or a human replacement, due to the delicate nature of this work, it’s important for those involved in SAR design to continue to have discussions about small to significant ways to improve the patient experience.

With a title that truly gets to the heart of the matter, the study  “Social robots in rehabilitation: A question of trust” is published in the Science Robotics journal this month.

via These Friendly Helpful Robots Will Likely Be Your Future Rehabilitation Partners

[WEB SITE] Robots as Tools and Partners in Rehabilitation

Robots as Tools and Partners in Rehabilitation

Rudolf-Werner Dreier Presse- und Öffentlichkeitsarbeit
Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg im Breisgau

Why trust should play a crucial part in the development of intelligent machines for medical therapies

In future decades the need for effective strategies for medical rehabilitation will increase significantly, because patients’ rate of survival after diseases with severe functional deficits, such as a stroke, will increase. Socially assistive robots (SARs) are already being used in rehabilitation for this reason. In the journal Science Robotics, a research team led by neuroscientist Dr. Philipp Kellmeyer of the Freiburg University Medical Center and Prof. Dr. Oliver Müller from the Department of Philosophy of the University of Freiburg, analyzes the improvements necessary to make SARs valuable and trustworthy assistants for medical therapies.

The researchers conclude that the development of SARs not only requires technical improvements, but primarily social, trust-building measures. Rehabilitation patients in particular are dependent on a reliable relationship with their therapists. So there must be trust in the safety of the robotic system, especially regarding the predictability of the machines’ behavior. Given the ever-growing intelligence of the robots and with it their independence, this is highly important.

In addition, robots and patients can only interact well, the scientists explain, when they have shared goals that they pursue through the therapy. To achieve this, aspects of philosophical and developmental psychology must also be taken into account in the development of SARs: the ability of robots to recognize the aims and motives of a patient is a critical requirement if cooperation is to be successful. So there must also be trust for the participants to adapt to one another. The frustration felt by patients, for instance as a result of physical or linguistic limitations, would be avoided if the robots were adapted to the specific needs and vulnerabilities of the patient in question.

Philipp Kellmeyer and Oliver Müller are members of the Cluster of Excellence BrainLinks-BrainTools of the University of Freiburg. The study also involved Prof. Dr. Shelly Levy-Tzedek and Ronit Feingold-Polak from the Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Israel. In the 2018/19 academic year, the Freiburg researchers together with the legal academic Prof. Dr. Silja Vöneky and the IT specialist Prof. Dr. Wolfram Burgard, both from the University of Freiburg, are developing a Research Focus into normative aspects of interaction between people and autonomous intelligent systems at the Freiburg Institute for Advanced Studies (FRIAS).

Contact:
Dr. Philipp Kellmeyer
Translational Neurotechnological Lab (AG Ball)
Department of Neurosurgery at the Freiburg University Medical Center
and BrainLinks-BrainTools
University of Freiburg
Tel.: + 49 761 270-87570
philipp.kellmeyer@uniklinik-freiburg.de

Prof. Dr. Oliver Müller
Department of Philosophy and BrainLinks-BrainTools
University of Freiburg
Tel.: + 49 761 203-2432
oliver.mueller@philosophie.uni-freiburg.de

Caption:
A robot congratulates a patient for correctly sorting the colored beakers. Photo: Shelly Levy-Tzedek

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https://www.pr.uni-freiburg.de/pm-en/press-releases-2018/robots-as-tools-and-par…

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via Robots as Tools and Partners in Rehabilitation

[BLOG POST] Advantages of incorporating tele-rehabilitation into healthcare

The technology applied to the field of rehabilitation provides multiple benefits for both the health system and the patient.  Next, we explain why tele-rehabilitation will help optimize healthcare resources and improve patients’ quality of life.

A better picture: lack of specialists and long waiting lists in rehabilitation

“The Spanish health system is not prepared to respond to the advance of medical rehabilitation and the epidemic of disability due to ageing,” concluded the Spanish Society for Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine (Sermef) in its latest edition held from 30 May to 1 June in Gijón (Asturias).

This shortage throughout the country requires incorporating tele-rehabilitation into the Spanish health system.  However, Manuel Rodríguez-Piñero, from Sermef’s board of directors, stated, “the Rehabilitation services suffer from technological obsolescence, which, if not taken care of, will become obsolete and out of the 21st century”. Such as this news from ABC in Seville underlines, the director added: “The integration of robotics or virtual reality systems into rehabilitation assistance, to give two examples, are common to all European rehabilitation centers and is, unfortunately, the story of our hospitals”.

Sermef calls for unified action to improve the detection and treatment of disability situations and to promote a reorganization of rehabilitation for rational care, as well as an adequate definition of portfolios of services and procedures that allow efficient management. 

Recently, La Sexta Noticias also announced that the lack of physiotherapists, the number of chronically ill, and the current model of care contribute to the congestion of the centers and, consequently, a delay of more than two months for rehabilitation in public health care. Professionals stress the importance of receiving physical therapy on time, and more so after an operation. Failure to do so can have lifelong consequences.

How to solve it: distance rehabilitation therapies

Remote rehabilitation or tele-rehabilitation consists, in the first place, of diagnosing possible musculoskeletal pathologies through wearable sensors that record movements in real time and in a very precise way. The medical report is then shared with the physical therapist to determine the type of exercises the patient should follow. Through the internet connection, the patient can access a space, where he can easily find the exercises so he can do them whenever and wherever he wants, and he can consult with the doctor whenever the need.

DyCare wanted to bet on ReHub, a new solution based on an online platform that allows connecting the patient, the physiotherapist and the doctor. It facilitates the execution of the rehabilitation treatment from home, and it is always monitored by the rehabilitation professional.

Silvia Raga, CEO of the company, comments: “Our goal is to offer products of value to the patient. We want to show objective data to offer more personalized treatments for the patient, and, at the same time, contribute to savings in the health system”. With this in mind, DyCare does not lose focus on transforming the future of rehabilitation by developing the first digital solution for distance physical rehabilitation therapies.

Eight advantages of tele-rehabilitation

1. Storage of and access to the patient’s medical records from any location
2. A personalized program of the rehabilitation exercises, specifically adapted to the patient’s physical condition
3. Real-time control and monitoring of the patient by the expert
4. Remote adaptation of the exercises
5. Continuous interaction between doctor, physiotherapist and patient
6. Patient empowerment and adherence to treatment thanks to the biofeedback they receive in real time during the execution of the exercises
7. Comfort when performing the exercises as they can be done where and when the patient wants
8. Savings in travel costs and waiting time

If you have any questions or if you would like to receive more information from DyCare ReHub, please do not hesitate to contact us, we will be happy to contact you.

 

via Advantages of incorporating tele-rehabilitation into healthcare – Dycare