Scientists from DSTU, together with colleagues from Iraq, have developed a device to restore leg health after ankle injuries. It can prevent amputation even in severe injuries. The device is customized for each patient.
Orthoses are special devices for the legs. They help people move during treatment and recovery from injuries, experts from the Don State Technical University said. Today, sensors are added to orthoses that measure the load on the leg when walking.
When using robotic devices, not all developers pay attention to patients' complaints, as well as how different device samples affect gait formation. For example, supporting brackets do not reduce the stress that occurs in the foot and ankle as a result of external impacts.
Engineers have developed an orthosis for the ankle joint. It has sensors that record force and tension during therapeutic exercises and walking. The mathematical model of the orthosis from DSTU synchronizes the operation of the basic and platform hinges with an electric motor. It also takes into account the individual characteristics of the patient.
With the help of the exoskeletal device we developed, a patient who was threatened with amputation of the leg was able to successfully undergo rehabilitation and save it. Yes, due to the severity of the injury, the leg in certain places will now be in a flattened state for life, but the main thing is that the patient did not lose the limb.
The head of the department said that part of the work was carried out at Al-Nahrain University (Baghdad, Iraq). There, an electromechanical sensor was tested that measures the pressure and force between the foot and the orthosis.
Based on the results of research that continues at DSTU, two Russian patents have been registered at the department.
Earlier, the First Moscow State Medical University named after Sechenov developed a "smart" orthosis that adapts to the degree of injury of the patient. The device is ready for use and can be manufactured in three days after ordering.
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