Joint supports for patients with arthritis or poor muscle strength could soon get an injection of artificial intelligence and wireless technology, thanks to the Instituto de Automácia Industrial (IAI) in Madrid. The device, called ‘GAIT’, incorporates electronic sensors into each support bandage (orthosis) that respond to the way the ankle, knee or elbow is moving, calculate the best way of responding, and then mechanically manipulate the bandage so it eases the flow of energy through the joint. Furthermore, the sensors collect data about joint movement, resistance, and comfort level, which can be accessed over a wireless connection by doctors. “Traditionally, the orthoses are purely mechanical devices that provide rigidity to the leg when a patient is standing and allow it to flex when they are walking,” José Luis Pons, project co-ordinator, told IST Results. "Without the incorporation of sensors and actuators, traditional orthoses often cause people to walk abnormally, resulting in higher energy use and greater discomfort. “With this intelligent system, patients should be able to move more naturally because the device can react to the activities they are performing, providing them with greater comfort regardless of whether they are sitting, standing, walking or going up stairs." According to the IAI, the wireless connection also allows doctors access to the device for configuration and adjustment, so it can be manipulated with a great deal of precision from a computer terminal. Clinical trails are due to take place in Spain and the Netherlands next year. Pons is optimistic that both clinicians and patients will find GAIT useful. “A preliminary evaluation of the market shows that these orthoses could benefit a huge number of people of any age and with a wide range of disabilities,” he says. “In addition, because Europe has an ageing population, the incidence of age-related diseases such as arthritis is likely to increase."
Links
GAIT Project (In English)