Movendo Technology is partering with Kessler Foundation to explore potential applications for Movendo’s robotic platform hunova in rehabilitation research in populations with balance deficits caused by neurological illness or injury and aging.

At Kessler Foundation, the hunova is being integrated into ongoing clinical trials in brain injury and stroke, according to research scientist Rakesh Pilkar, PhD, in the Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering Research. Dr Pilkar directs the Center’s Balance Assessment and Training Laboratory.

Robotic Medical Device for Gait and Balance

The hunova is a programmable robotic medical device consisting of two independent electromechanical movable platforms, one at foot level and one at seat level. The device, which can deliver more than 200 exercises for postural control, balance, core stability and proprioception, operates in active, passive, and assistive modes, according to a media release from Movendo Technology.

“Balance is a key element of our lives, playing a fundamental role in our ability to safely perform activities of daily living. When balance is impaired, quality of life declines as individuals lose their independence and their risk for injury, including falls, increases. This greatly increases costs of care and caregiver burden.

“Incorporating the hunova in our mobility research will help us better understand the spectrum of balance dysfunction across populations with neuromuscular disabilities, and develop new interventions to help restore balance function, toward the goal of improving mobility and enhancing quality of life.”

— Rakesh Pilkar, PhD

Fall Risk Assessment

Foundation scientists will also use Movendo’s Silver Index, a 20-minute predictive evaluation that provides an objective assessment of fall risk and suggests exercise protocols for mitigating risk.

“Establishing this long-term collaboration with Kessler Foundation is an important step toward improving outcomes for individuals whose rehabilitation is complicated by balance dysfunction.

“The scope of the Foundation’s research provides opportunities for testing protocols for restoring and maintaining balance function in a broad spectrum of populations including stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, musculoskeletal disorders, and aging.”

— Frank Menzler, Executive VP and General Manager North America of Movendo

[Source(s): Movendo Technology, Business Wire]


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