EPFL researchers have developed a customizable soft robotic system that uses compressed air to produce shape changes, vibrations, and other haptic, or tactile, feedback in a variety of configurations. The device holds significant promise for applications in virtual reality, physical therapy, and rehabilitation.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FvRLr-9YvKg?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe>In contrast to its versatile and rather complex 16 possible configurations, the design of the Digits framework, developed in the <a href="https://www.epfl.ch/labs/rrl/">Reconfigurable Robotics Lab</a> in EPFL’s School of Engineering, is relatively simple. Every configuration is made of multiple modules – or Digits – that are composed of rigid links joined by flexible joints. These joints are controlled by pressurized air pouches to change the modules’ shape and stiffness.In a study recently published in <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/aisy.202500142" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Advanced Intelligent Systems</a>, Reconfigurable Robotics Lab head Jamie Paik and her team present two Digits configurations – the wearable TangiGlove and hand-held TangiBall – demonstrating their framework’s versatility.“Haptic, or tactile, interfaces can enhance virtual reality experiences by emulating real-world touch, and support rehabilitation through interactive systems. But there is a real need for more generalized reconfigurable designs and control methods,” explains PhD student and first author Serhat Demirtas.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1750718070027-a5fe230b.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The 16 possible configurations of Digits modules. 2025 RRL EPFL CC BY SA 4.0Thanks to its modular design, the Digits framework holds potential for a wide range of applications, including progressive muscle training and motor recovery as well as different configurations for haptic interfaces in virtual environments.<h2>Matching the sensory richness of human touch</h2>Unlike other human senses like vision and hearing, which are largely passive, the sense of touch requires complex actions, like rubbing or grasping, to perceive texture, temperature, weight, shape, or stiffness. Haptic technologies are therefore often developed for a single use or aspect of touch, as it is extremely challenging to create systems that can combine adaptability and scalability with a lifelike haptic experience.<blockquote>Our goal with the Digits modules is to redefine human-machine interaction through reconfigurable robots that adapt their shape, stiffness, and haptic feedback.<footer>- Jamie Paik</footer></blockquote>The Digits framework meets this challenge thanks to the signature reconfigurable robotics technology of Paik’s lab. Remarkably, it spans two major categories of robotic configuration: closed-chain and open-chain. While open-chain structures consist of series of connected links fixed at one end, like a robotic arm, closed-chain configurations usually have a loop design with two fixed ends. The open-chain TangiGlove therefore resembles an exoskeleton, which can be used to deliver stiffness feedback to the wearer. Meanwhile, the closed-chain TangiBall has four connected Digits that can assume up to eight different shapes – ranging from a cube to a sphere – in addition to providing stiffness feedback. Both devices can also produce vibrations.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1750718111945-ac0582bf.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Digits has significant potential for virtual and augmented reality environments. 2025 RRL EPFL CC BY SA 4.0In addition to its modular design, the Digits framework is notable for its focus on pneumatic (compressed air)-based actuation, which is an underexplored area of robotics for personalized haptic experiences. To close this gap, the scientists extended the open-source robotics software Feelix, enabling users to create custom pneumatic haptic interaction profiles. The machine learning-based system can sense touch-induced changes in the Digits modules and create new intelligent, intuitive interactions – with no coding required.The team already has plans to develop the technology’s rehabilitation potential by evaluating therapeutic scenarios and long-term usability. They are also investigating a wider range of applications via new configurations, especially those that leverage the device’s quick transitions between different, dimensions, shapes, and stiffnesses – an essential prerequisite for real-time interaction in virtual and augmented environments.“Our goal with the Digits modules is to redefine human-machine interaction through reconfigurable robots that adapt their shape, stiffness, and haptic feedback. This adaptability supports more tangible virtual reality, effective rehabilitation, and richer experiences for everyone – regardless of their size, ability, and need,” Paik emphasizes.<hr>ReferencesDemirtas, S., van Oosterhout, A., Kadungamparambil John, R. and Paik, J. (2025), Reconfigurable Haptic Feedback: Comprehensive Design and Control Framework. Adv. Intell. Syst. 2500142.&nbsp;<a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/aisy.202500142" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://doi.org/10.1002/aisy.202500142</a>

One possible configuration of the TangiBall. 2025 RRL EPFL CC BY SA 4.0

EPFL researchers have developed a customizable soft robotic system that uses compressed air to produce shape changes, vibrations, and other haptic, or tactile, feedback in a variety of configurations.

Soft robot modules for new haptic interactions

When a person sustains an injury to the spinal cord, the normal communication between the brain and the spinal circuits below the injury are interrupted, resulting in paralysis. Because the brain is functioning normally, as is the spinal cord below the injury, researchers have been working to re-establish the communication to allow for rehabilitation and potentially restore movement.<a href="https://engineering.washu.edu/faculty/Ismael-Seanez.html">Ismael Seáñez</a>, assistant professor of biomedical engineering in the McKelvey School of Engineering at Washington University in St. Louis and of neurosurgery at WashU Medicine, and members of his lab, including <a href="https://seanezlab.wustl.edu/people-page/">Carolyn Atkinson</a>, a doctoral student, have developed a type of decoder to restore that communication. Through experiments in their lab with 17 human subjects without a spinal cord injury, they were able to cue movement in the lower leg with transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation, or noninvasive, external electrical pulses.Results of the research were published online April 25, 2025, in the Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation.The team used a special cap fitted with noninvasive electrodes that measure brain activity through electroencephalography (EEG). While wearing the cap, seated volunteers were asked to extend their leg at the knee, then to only think about extending their leg – while keeping it still — so researchers could record the brain waves in both exercises.The team provided the neural activity to the decoder, or algorithm, so it could learn how the brain waves act in both circumstances. They found that the actual movement and imagined movement used similar neural strategies.“After we give the decoder this data, it learns to predict based on neural activity whenever there is movement or no movement,” Seáñez said. “We show that we can predict whenever someone is thinking about moving their leg, even if their leg does not actually move.”The team used controls to ensure that the volunteers were truly imagining movement and not actually moving.“Whenever people move, this can introduce signal noise, and we want to make sure that the signal noise is not what we're learning to predict,” Seáñez said. “It's movement intention or brain activity that we want to predict, so we have people imagine that they're extending their leg and use the same algorithm that has been trained on people moving to predict whether they were imagining or not.”Seanez said this reveals two things.“One, that it's more likely that we're decoding movement intention and not an artifact, or noise, and second, whenever we employ this on people with spinal cord injury who will not have that ability to actually move their legs for us to label the data, we could use their imagination of moving a leg to train our decoder.”Seáñez said the proof-of-concept study is a first step toward developing a noninvasive brain-spine interface that uses real-time predictions to deliver transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation to reinforce voluntary movement in a single joint in rehabilitation in patients with a spinal cord injury.Going forward, the team plans to test a generalized decoder trained on data from all participants that could determine whether a universal decoder could perform as well as a personalized one and simplify its use in clinical settings.<hr />Atkinson C, Lombardi L, Lang M, Keesey R, Hawthorn R, Seitz Z, Leuthardt EC, Brunner P, Seáñez I. Development and evaluation of a non-invasive brain-spine interface using transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation. Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, online April 25, 2025. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12984-025-01628-6.

Researchers in Ismael Seáñez’s lab have developed a type of decoder to restore communication between the brain and the area below a spinal cord injury. Through experiments in their lab with 17 human subjects without a spinal cord injury, they were able to cue movement in the lower leg with transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation, or noninvasive, external electrical pulses. (Credit: Carolyn Atkinson)

Ismael Seáñez’s lab develops brain wave decoder that may help in spinal cord injury rehabilitation

Brain decoder controls spinal cord stimulation

<html><head></head><body>Spinal cord injuries are life-altering, often leaving individuals with severe mobility impairments. While rehabilitation robotics—devices that guide movement during therapy—have improved training for those with spinal cord injuries, their effectiveness remains limited. Without active muscle engagement, robotic-assisted movement alone does not sufficiently retrain the nervous system.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KnyHjGcDnME?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> A team at .<a href="https://www.neurorestore.swiss/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NeuroRestore</a>, led by Grégoire Courtine and Jocelyne Bloch, has now developed a system that seemlessly integrates an implanted spinal cord neuroprosthesis with rehabilitation robotics. The researchers’ device delivers well-timed electrical pulses to stimulate muscles in harmony with robotic movements, resulting in natural and coordinated muscle activity during therapy. The neuroprosthetics innovation leveraged the the robotic expertise of <a href="https://www.epfl.ch/labs/biorob/">Professor Auke Ijspeert’s lab at EPFL</a>. This advancement not only enhances immediate mobility but also fosters long-term recovery.“The seamless integration of spinal cord stimulation with rehabilitation or recreational robotics will accelerate the deployment of this therapy into the standard of care and the community of people with spinal cord injury,” says Courtine. This adaptability ensures that rehabilitation professionals can incorporate this technology into existing rehabilitation protocols worldwide. Combining therapies also presents significant challenges, as each requires precise synchronization. Spinal cord stimulation strategies must be modulated in both space and time to match the patient’s movement, and integrating them with widely used robotic rehabilitation systems requires a flexible and adaptable framework.The technology relies on a fully implanted spinal cord stimulator that delivers biomimetic electrical epidural stimulation (electrical epidural stimulation). Unlike traditional functional electrical stimulation, this method activates motor neurons more efficiently by mimicking natural nerve signals.The researchers integrated electrical epidural stimulation with various robotic rehabilitation devices—including treadmills, exoskeletons, and stationary bikes—ensuring that stimulation is precisely timed with each phase of movement. The system uses wireless sensors to detect limb motion and automatically adjust stimulation in real time, allowing for a seamless user experience.In a proof-of-concept study involving five individuals with spinal cord injuries, the combination of robotics and electrical epidural stimulation resulted in immediate and sustained muscle activation. Not only did participants regain the ability to engage muscles during robotic-assisted therapy, but some also improved their voluntary movements even after the stimulation was turned off.The researchers also worked closely with rehabilitation centers to test how well the stimulation system integrated with widely used robotic devices. “We visited multiple rehabilitation centers to test our stimulation technology with the robotic systems they routinely use, and it was incredibly rewarding to witness their enthusiasm,” say .NeuroRestore researcher Nicolas Hankov and BioRob researcher Miroslav Caban, the study’s first authors. “Seeing firsthand how seamlessly our approach integrates with existing rehabilitation protocols reinforces its potential to transform care for people with spinal cord injury by providing a technological framework that is easy to adopt and deploy across multiple rehabilitation environments.”The study also showed the potential of this approach beyond clinical settings, as participants used the system to walk with a rollator and cycle outdoors, validating its real-world impact.This innovative technology offers new hope for individuals with spinal cord injuries, presenting a more effective rehabilitation approach than robotics alone. By making rehabilitation more dynamic and engaging, it has the potential to significantly enhance recovery outcomes. Future clinical trials will be needed to establish long-term benefits, but the initial results suggest that integrating neuroprosthetics with rehabilitation robotics could redefine mobility restoration after paralysis.List of contributors<ul><li>EPFL Neuro X</li><li>Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL)</li><li>Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (.NeuroRestore)</li><li>EPFL Biorobotics Laboratory</li><li>ONWARD Medical</li><li>Bern University of Applied Sciences</li><li>VAMED Management and Service Switzerland AG</li><li>ETH Zurich Sensory-Motor Systems Lab</li><li>University of Zurich Spinal Cord Injury Center</li><li>Hocoma AG</li><li>Medtronic</li><li>Oxford University</li><li>GBY (Go-by-Yourself) SA</li><li>Université de Bordeaux Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives</li><li>Zurich University of Applied Sciences (ZHAW)</li><li>MyoSwiss AG</li></ul><a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/mrs3q6p0swmb2ojq4hz9r/APSxvOKXuBsk7FztEVNrhZA?rlkey=im02yangj4ghnadhi7g7eqvei&amp;e=1&amp;st=4p8m3tfd&amp;dl=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Press kit</a><hr>ReferencesNicolas Hankov, Miroslav Caban, Robin Demesmaeker, Margaux Roulet, Salif Komi, Michele Xiloyannis, Anne Gehrig, Camille Varescon, Martina Rebeka Spiess, Serena Maggioni, Chiara Basla, Gleb Koginov, Florian Haufe, Marina D’Ercole, Cathal Harte, Sergio D. Hernandez-Charpak, Aurelie Paley, Manon Tschopp, Natacha Herrmann, Nadine Intering, Edeny Baaklini, Francesco Acquati, Charlotte Jacquet, Anne Watrin, Jimmy Ravier, Frédéric Merlos, Grégoire Eberlé, Katrien Van den Keybus, Hendrik Lambert, Henri Lorach, Rik Buschman, Nicholas Buse, Timothy Denison, Dino De Bon, Jaime E. Duarte, Robert Riener, Auke Ijspeert, Fabien Wagner, Sebastian Tobler, Leonie Asboth, Joachim Von Zitzewitz, Jocelyne Bloch, Grégoire Courtine. Augmenting rehabilitation robotics with spinal cord neuromodulation: a proof of concept. Science Robotics 12 March 2025. DOI:&nbsp;<a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/scirobotics.adn5564" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10.1126/scirobotics.adn5564</a></body></html>

Common robotic devices to safely automate and augment gait rehabilitation. © .NeuroRestore/EPFL/CHUV 2025

Scientists at .Neurorestore (EPFL/CHUV/UNIL) have developed an approach that combines rehabilitation robotics with spinal cord stimulation to restore movement in people with spinal cord injuries. The technology enhances rehabilitation and enables activities like cycling and walking outdoors.

Robotics and spinal stimulation restore movement in paralysis

With the majority of spine surgeons experiencing bodily discomfort due to their work, the need for ergonomic improvements in the healthcare industry is clear. Orthopedic spine surgeon Philip Louie is on a mission to address this issue, leveraging&nbsp;<a href="https://www.movella.com/products/motion-capture" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Xsens motion capture</a>&nbsp;technology and Scalefit software to identify pain points and create solutions that enhance surgeons’ physical well-being and long-term performance.Challenge:&nbsp;To effectively analyze surgeons’ occupational health and safety, healthcare professional Philip Louie needed an objective dataset to define specific problem areas.Solution:&nbsp;Using the Xsens inertial motion capture and <a href="https://www.movella.com/integrations/scalefit" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Scalefit&nbsp;</a>software provided highly accurate data on the surgeons’ movements, all while maintaining privacy for themselves and their patients.Key takeaways:<ul><li id="isPasted" style="font-weight: bold;">Advanced data accuracy for ergonomic assessment: inertial motion capture records even the smallest movements, ensuring precise analysis</li><li style="font-weight: bold;">Ensuring privacy: Camera-less technology guarantees anonymity for both patients and surgeons</li><li>Authentic movement thanks to unobtrusive technology: comfortable wearables allow ergonomic professionals to track real, natural motion</li></ul>An overwhelming 80% of spine surgeons experience bodily discomfort. This high proportion shows a need for occupational health and safety to be prioritized within the healthcare industry. Such injuries can lead to unexpected time off, declining performance, or even early retirement. <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-louie-1605807/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Orthopedic spine surgeon Philip Louie</a> is conducting a study to find out how to improve surgeons’ physical well-being to make their highly technical job that little bit easier.Stopping spine surgeon injuries“The majority of healthcare professionals experience some sort of bodily discomfort due to their job,” explains Philip. “So the first part of our study was to find the physical pain points of spine surgeons.” After completing a series of intense surgeries, Philip noticed the harmful impact and the role it had on his joints and muscles.However, Philip was not the only surgeon experiencing these issues. He started the study to show that physical well-being is a profession-wide issue, not just a personal one, and with this information, hopes to build more ergonomically friendly surgery rooms. To effectively demonstrate his point, he needed objective data that put a spotlight on the exact areas for improvement in the healthcare industry.Preparing for researchPhilip decided to perform ergonomic analyses on three surgeons, each performing the same procedure ten times. “Using replicable surgeries as the basis for the study was crucial,” he says. “It allowed us to compare and contrast each dataset to identify outlying issues.” Philip then researched the different techniques for assessing occupational health and safety.“For the first attempt, we used the REBA method,” explains Philip. REBA (rapid entire body analysis) requires an ergonomics analyst to manually assess the worker’s movements, using their knowledge of physical well-being to point out issues and suggest amendments. “We found that while this was useful, we didn’t have the quantitative, set-in-stone data needed for this project.”&nbsp;An extra person in the surgery room also led to privacy issues for both patient and surgeon. Most would be uncomfortable having their work, or personal procedures, observed by a third party. Filming would also create an anonymity issue, leading to faces having to be blurred and time taken away from the investigation. After extensive research, Philip found the answer to anonymity while further improving the quality of data.Using Xsens and Scalefit technology“When we found inertial motion capture, we knew that it was the only way to efficiently carry out our research without encroaching on the privacy of others,” says Philip. Using inertial technology, the Xsens motion capture system tracks velocity, acceleration, and rotation without requiring any cameras. Instead, the data is sent directly from the wearables to post-processing software.“I was able to perform a two-hour surgery while wearing the Xsens system,” Philip continues. “By the end, myself and the other surgeons forgot we were even wearing it.” The Awinda set contains 17 wireless sensors, all individually strapped to the body for bespoke comfort. The team could also maintain a sterile environment, with the sensors tucked underneath scrubs.Using the Xsens motion data and Scalefit software, Philip could effectively collate his results to show objective findings, pinpointing the need for ergonomic improvement in the surgery room. The research team quantified this data to highlight the specific areas of a surgeon’s body that were most affected by their job. Having this abundance of data instantly available for research was essential for rapidly progressing the project.Looking aheadErgonomic analysis is best carried out in a worker’s natural environment, doing the tasks they would do every day, and Xsens allows you to do just that. “I hope to roll out this technique to the rest of the healthcare industry,” says Philip. “Its usefulness was invaluable to us, and it can help many other professionals perform their jobs more safely.”Philip’s research project is drawing to a close, and the last rounds of motion capture data are being recorded. He hopes to create tangible solutions for spine surgeons, with his ability to identify exact pain points and put together a plan to prevent them from happening, such as full-body exercises to relieve tension from the back, shoulders, wrists, and other vulnerable joints.&nbsp;Just wearing the Xsens suit raised awareness for the toll surgery takes on medical professionals. Philip could see in real time how his body was reacting to holding it in a fixed position, encouraging him to relax and avoid experiencing unnecessary pain.“Inertial motion capture technology was the only solution for this project,” concludes Philip. “Having this quantitative data is invaluable to our occupational health and safety.

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Ergonomic analysis for spine surgeons: saving your back and neck

Advancements in <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/motion-capture" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">motion capture technology</a> are transforming patient rehabilitation, as demonstrated by recent research combining Xsens technology with an innovative real-time biofeedback device. This approach promises to significantly enhance balance control and rehabilitation outcomes for patients with diverse balance and movement challenges.Key takeaways:<ul><li>A new device to improve balance:&nbsp;Dr. Hande Argunsah and PhD candidate Begum Yalcin developed a wearable device with real-time haptic biofeedback that helps patients maintain better balance during physical activities.</li><li>Accurate motion analysis with Xsens:&nbsp;The researchers chose Xsens Awinda to conduct device validation because the system provides precise data for evaluating the effectiveness of balance-improving devices.</li><li>Increased engagement: Using a 3D avatar in therapy sessions improves patient motivation and extends stamina during rehabilitation exercises.</li><li>Broad future research: The technology is being adapted for various conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, scoliosis, and osteoarthritis research, to refine treatment methods.</li></ul><a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/JET-12-2022-0069/full/html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Published</a> in the Journal of Enabling Technologies.Today, patient rehabilitation is becoming more data-driven with the introduction of new technology, such as motion capture, providing precise and detailed patient movement analysis and in-depth insights. The researchers from Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University in Istanbul, Turkey, Dr. Hande Argunsah and PhD candidate Begum Yalcin used Xsens motion capture technology to address complex challenges in balance and motion analysis. Their innovative work not only demonstrates the potential of advanced motion capture systems, but also opens up new avenues for improving rehabilitation practices and patient outcomes.Addressing the challengeMedulloblastoma, a type of brain cancer affecting the cerebellum, often results in significant motor impairments, making balance and coordination a daily struggle for patients. Traditional rehabilitation methods may not fully address these issues, underscoring the need for more responsive and adaptive solutions. Recognizing this, Dr. Argunsah and Yalcin embarked on developing a groundbreaking wearable device aimed at monitoring and improving balance in real-time. Their <a href="https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/JET-12-2022-0069/full/html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">research</a> involved a 16-year-old patient with medulloblastoma. The device, placed on the sternum, tracks balance losses and movement patterns while providing immediate haptic feedback through vibrations, aimed at helping patients correct their movements and improve stability.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI4MzcwMDExMjUyLU1lZHVsbG9ibGFzdG9tYSByZXNlYXJjaCAxIChlZGl0ZWQpLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Control participant and patient participant perform the 10-meter walking testTo validate their device, Dr. Argunsah and Yalcin turned to Xsens motion capture technology, provided by the official distributor of Xsens in Turkey, <a href="https://www.sense4motion.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sense4Motion</a>. Xsens was instrumental in capturing detailed motion data and assessing the effectiveness of their device.The role of XsensIn the research, <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/motion-capture/xsens-mvn-awinda" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Xsens Awinda</a>&nbsp;was used to enable a comprehensive analysis of knee joint kinematics and center of mass orientation. By comparing movement patterns with and without the biofeedback device, Xsens provided a thorough evaluation of the device’s impact on balance and stability.The choice of Xsens for the research was based on several considerations. As Dr. Argunsah explains, "Xsens provides a lot of freedom, so we can take the device anywhere we want. As the data collection can be done anywhere while wearing daily clothing, patients can feel more comfortable. This also allows our students to be present and observe data collection."Dr. Argunsah also emphasized the patient’s positive response to the real-time Xsens 3D avatar, noting that it brings engagement and motivation during the rehabilitation journey." [Patients] are happy, and the 3D avatar captures their attention. During static tests, single leg stance tests, and while sitting with arms extended, the duration that patients can remain in the position increased when they were shown the 3D avatar. As they focused on the avatar, their motivation grew, leading to a significant increase in their stamina throughout the physical therapy session, especially during the single-leg assessment".Key research insightsThe integration of Xsens technology with the novel wearable device brought promising results. The device effectively improved movement patterns, bringing them closer to those observed in control subjects. More importantly, it significantly reduced the frequency of balance losses when biofeedback was provided, highlighting its potential for enhancing patient stability.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI4MzcwMzY0OTgwLU1lZHVsbG9ibGF0b21hIHJlc2VhcmNoIDIgKGVkaXRlZCkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Medulloblastoma patient performing the 10-meter walking test without biofeedbackLooking AheadDr. Argunsah and her research group are planning to expand their studies to include patients with Parkinson’s disease, scoliosis, and osteoarthritis, alongside other neurological and orthopedic conditions. By leveraging Xsens, they aim to gather extensive data and refine therapeutic interventions, ultimately developing advanced algorithms and treatments to better manage motor impairments and improve rehabilitation processes. Specifically, they aim to improve joint function and mobility in individuals with osteoarthritis by creating an algorithm to identify the severity of the condition.By combining innovative technologies with rigorous research, Dr. Argunsah and her research group are paving the way for more effective treatments and improved quality of life for patients with complex motor challenges.ConclusionThe findings of this research showcase the profound impact that advanced <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/motion-capture" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">motion capture</a> technology such as Xsens can have on patient rehabilitation. Dr. Argunsah notes that, based on their experience with Xsens, which they have been using since 2019, this technology may be applied effectively in the domains of health and rehabilitation, as well as ergonomics, sports, and animation. &nbsp;

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Advancing patient care with real-time balance biofeedback and Xsens analysis

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How Pro-F is revolutionizing patient-centered care

AKLOS Health is a game-changing app for the physical health of individuals everywhere. Users can access personalized data from the comfort of home and without the need for lofty physio fees. Sound too good to be true? Not with <a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" target="_blank">Xsens DOT</a> wearable sensor platform.&nbsp;By ordering a kit containing sensors and a tablet, users can quickly track their basic physiological movements with minimum fuss. The data taken from the sensors is then assessed by offsite coaches, providing feedback attuned to each user’s needs. To find out more about <a href="https://akloshealth.com/" target="_blank">AKLOS Health</a>, we sat down with company founder and CEO, Patrick Pakan, discussing his mission, Xsens DOT platform, and the inspiring, personal story that kick-started his venture.&nbsp;Road to RecoveryPatrick’s switch from a career in investment to app-development was born out of his own physiological issues. Six surgeries in 12 years while working close to 80 hours a week was no walk in the park for Patrick, who insists that much of it would have been avoided with access to high-level physiotherapy. Something needed to change.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNjE4ODM3MTI3MDE1LTE2MTg4MzcxMjcwMTUuanBlZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" alt="Screenshot 2021-04-06 at 17.48.39" width="2560" srcset="https://www.xsens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png?width=1280&amp;name=Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png 1280w, https://www.xsens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png?width=2560&amp;name=Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png 2560w, https://www.xsens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png?width=3840&amp;name=Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png 3840w, https://www.xsens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png?width=5120&amp;name=Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png 5120w, https://www.xsens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png?width=6400&amp;name=Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png 6400w, https://www.xsens.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png?width=7680&amp;name=Screenshot%202021-04-06%20at%2017.48.39.png 7680w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" class="fr-fic fr-dii">After scouring the market for an evidence-based, exercise therapy platform that could be used at home, Patrick realized there was a desperate need for a scientific and personalized approach to recovery. Stepping foot into entirely new territory meant Patrick required the right technology and expertise to realize his vision – The Xsens DOT platform and the Xsens team were the perfect choices.&nbsp;“Xsens doesn’t just provide the DOT wearables and run. They’re equipped with the right engineers to assist in our development where needed which is incredibly helpful,” said Patrick. “The DOT wearables allow us to categorize a patient’s pain condition then customize an exercise program based on their unique movement data. The DOTs also provide our health coaches with the movement information needed to continually monitor patients without needing to be in the same room – DOT has proven to be as accurate as the high-grade industrial-sized mocap systems.”AKLOS makes personal health easy for everyday individuals, providing a bespoke service that works directly with the users in any setting or environment. In-depth knowledge isn’t required.&nbsp;“We send patients a kit in the mail with a tablet and anywhere between two to five wearable sensors. While the patients are exercising, our offsite health coaches are provided with performance-based outcome measures.” Patrick explained, adding, “We look for asymmetries, compensatory movements, and joint range of motion by way of example, so we can prescribe the appropriate exercise pathway and progress a patient’s program accordingly. What sets us apart is our ability to capture clinically relevant movement data and optimize patient results.”<div data-responsive="true" data-service="youtube"><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LKyFgPL5__k?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> </div>An inspiring missionAKLOS Health is part of a technological future that connects people to the very best experts remotely, regardless of their location, something that could revolutionize physiotherapy in the modern world. This future is only made possible with incredible advancements in <a href="https://www.xsens.com/blog/evolution-of-wearable-sensors" target="_blank">wearable tech</a> and digital connectivity.“Our mission is to make healthcare more equitable by providing solutions digitally where the current care models are becoming outdated. We’re seeing a shift in exercise therapy from brick and mortar clinics and into the home and we want to provide high quality care at an affordable price point to patients that otherwise would have a difficult time accessing this level of care.”We provide innovative developers like AKLOS Health with ground-up support – create applications we hadn’t imagined possible with Xsens DOT today.Are you interested about AKLOS Health and would like to know more about their journey with Xsens? Then we would recommend you to watch the webinar which you can on our <a href="https://www.xsens.com/webinars" rel="noopener" target="_blank">webinar overview.</a>With Xsens DOT, the possibilities are endless. We encourage developers to build their own unique applications. Our White Label option allows you to customize a design for the Xsens DOT and have your own logo on the sensors. &nbsp;Visit our developer page to see what Xsens DOT can do for you.&nbsp;Learn more about Xsens DOT <a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

with Xsens DOT

How AKLOS Health Aims To Revolutionize Physiotherapy

Released in January 2020, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" target="_blank">Xsens DOT</a> is a state-of-the-art development platform, providing robust motion sensors for innovative developers and researchers looking to build original applications. Almost a year in and there have already been some remarkable cases of exciting app-based solutions, all built from the ground up with Xsens hardware. One such example is ORYX Go, a game-changing application with an inspiring backstory.&nbsp;<a href="https://oryxmovementsolutions.com/" target="_blank">ORYX Go</a> is an application designed to automate biomechanical analysis for elite athletes, sports trainers, and physiotherapists that may lack the required knowledge or facilities to utilize motion capture research effectively. Once downloaded on a smart device, eight <a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Xsens DOT sensors</a> can be placed on the body of a person to accurately record running, walking, and jumping movements. The application is designed to present the relevant data in a readable format, saving time and improving its effectiveness.&nbsp;We spoke to Marjolein van Koningsveld, co-founder of <a href="https://oryxmovementsolutions.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">ORYX Movement Solutions</a>, about the inspiring backstory of the company and how its new ORYX Go app aims to transform athletic performance and&nbsp;rehabilitation.&nbsp;<img class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 200px;" alt="ORYX-02" sizes="(max-width: 267px) 100vw, 267px" src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1610717227694-1610717227694.png"> Life-changing injuryIn 2014, after many years of riding horses professionally, Marjolein developed a serious recurring back injury. The injury progressed to an excruciating point, hindering her ability to walk and work as normal.“(After the injury) I did find other jobs, but even if it was sedentary and in an office, I couldn’t work for more than 6 hours at a time. Medical experts told me that they couldn’t find a problem and I needed to live with it. I was in pain 24 hours a day” explained Marjolein. “I was 28 years old with my whole life ahead of me, it was devastating.” &nbsp;This life-changing injury had no clear resolution, but Marjolein’s past experience conducting motion analysis on the movement of horses led her to a different conclusion. After Marjolein met ORYX co-founder, Marcel Tiggelman, in the gym, the pair worked together on a solution, conducting motion analysis on Marjolein. This proved to be a huge leap forward, providing the data needed for Marcel and Marjolein’s physiotherapist to design an effective solution and heal the injury for good.&nbsp;The Formation of ORYX Motion ServicesBoth Marjolein and Marcel saw motion analysis as an effective tool for an individualized approach to athletic performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation, leading to the inception of ORYX Motion Services in 2015. It was during the development of the company that the pair became aware of <a href="https://www.xsens.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Xsens’ technology</a>.&nbsp;“We started as a service provider company, measuring the movement and designing rehabilitation programs for people that needed help.” explained Marjolein. “After about two years, we noticed there was a greater need in the market for this sort of technology and that lots of motion capture tools, such as Xsens, were becoming more mainstream in sports analysis. After discovering <a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Xsens DOT</a>, we knew that we didn’t need to develop our own sensor,” Marjolein continued.&nbsp;The release of Xsens DOT coincided perfectly with Marjolein’s plan to develop an entirely new application. The app was designed to bridge the gap in knowledge and application between physiotherapists, athletes, sports trainers, and biomechanical researchers, and the Xsens DOT sensors can pick up the precise measurements of any professional sport. The team was able to build the app from the ground up seamlessly with the DOT sensors. &nbsp;<img width="816" class="fr-fic fr-dii" alt="ORYX" sizes="(max-width: 816px) 100vw, 816px" src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1610717227971-1610717227971.png">Revolutionizing Motion Analysis&nbsp;Despite professional athletes possessing practical knowledge in athleticism and injury rehabilitation, translating motion data into an actionable solution usually requires an individual trained in the technology. Marjolein knew that this needed to change.&nbsp;“We invented a solution that can automatically detect the type of movement, analyze, and determine the quality of it based on the recorded movement data. We knew that we had to keep our clients in mind – they don’t have time to spend five hours analyzing data. It should also be affordable. Right now, we can automatically assess walking, running, and squats,” said Marjolein.Eight Xsens DOT sensors are placed on the body of an athlete. The signals are then picked up by the <a href="https://oryxmovementsolutions.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">ORYX GO</a> gateway, a carry-along device. This gateway provides additional steady connectivity for signal transmission from the sensors ensuring no data gets lost during long-distance running or sprinting for real-time data streaming. The athlete can run or walk out of range relative to the operating device without affecting the connection. After the recording is finished, the data is processed into a file which can be uploaded to the online portal on the cloud. The <a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Xsens DOT sensors</a> work with precision, even during intense professional sports.&nbsp;“Once the data is uploaded to a portal, in a minute or two, the portal will create a report for you. All of the angles and velocities are translated into terminology that the trainer can understand. This is an entirely unique solution,” explained Marjolein.<iframe width="640" height="360" class="fr-draggable" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SJX0ASnG_Eo?&amp;feature=emb_logo&amp;wmode=opaque" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe> Individual careThe core tenant found at the center of ORYX Go is individual optimization. The range of physiological differences between athletes means that a one-size-fits-all approach to rehabilitation and athletic optimization can have serious drawbacks. Using <a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Xsens DOT sensors</a>, ORYX Go tracks and processes data true only to the individual being studied. With clean data presented in an easy-to-understand format, athletes can work with their bodies, not against them.&nbsp;“There are so many professional runners out there with shin splint and runners knees, both entirely avoidable injuries with the right approach to training. Why do people have reoccurring injuries all of the time despite having physiotherapy? Everyone is an individual. It’s worth keeping this in mind when aiding in athletic performance” said Marjolein.Wireless <a href="https://www.xsens.com/xsens-dot" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Xsens DOT sensors</a> work anywhere with magnetic immunity, making them suitable for tracking full-body motion in sport-specific environments. This means precise measurements can be obtained to enhance athlete performance too. Marjolein already sees ORYX-Go as the perfect individualized training solution for elite athletes, providing fast, intricate biomechanical data that can be used to positively improve training and technique. &nbsp;“With ORYX Go, you can have a tailored approach to meet your needs, it’s data-driven. We want to take people from the silver medal in their sports up to gold and motion analysis can provide the in-depth data needed to achieve greater levels of performance. Even at the highest level of a sport, <a href="https://oryxmovementsolutions.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">ORYX Go</a> and the Xsens DOT sensors can provide accurate, in-depth data.”&nbsp;Xsens DOT users get access to our supportive, customer-focused team, and we’re working with ORYX to continue developing the capabilities of the sensor further. The full ORYX Go setup can be purchased with a fixed setup fee that includes user training. Find out more about the app&nbsp;<a href="https://oryxmovementsolutions.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;<img class="fr-fic fr-dii" style="width: 200px;" alt="ORYX 03" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1610717228284-1610717228284.png">Xsens DOT White LabelWith Xsens DOT, the possibilities are endless. We encourage developers to build their own unique applications. Our White Label option allows you to customize a design for the Xsens DOT and have your own logo on the sensors. &nbsp;Visit our developer page to see what Xsens DOT can do for you.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.xsens.com/developer" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Visit Xsens DOT developer here</a>&nbsp;

rehabilitation

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