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 individually for each patient.
Orthoses are special devices for the legs. They help people move during treatment and recovery after injuries, according to experts from the Don State Technical University. Today, sensors are added to orthoses to 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 models affect gait formation. For example, supporting braces 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 facing leg amputation was able to successfully recover and save it. Yes, due to the severity of the injury, the leg in certain places will now be permanently in a flattened state, but the main thing is that the patient did not lose the limb.
The head of the department reported that part of the work was carried out at Al-Nahrain University (Baghdad, Iraq). There, an electromechanical sensor was tested, which 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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