Applied Research
The technology brought to market by MOTEK Medical is used also for several projects of applied research. Those involve studies of the behavior of neurological and musculoskeletal systems in order to better understand the mechanisms of injury and physical disabilities. Process and methodologies to achieve better functional recovery are greatly improved by the technology. Specifically, the technology helps to advance diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic and neuromuscular pathologies by utilizing fundamental engineering principles and scientific methods.
Some of the topics of applied research that are progressing through the use of the CAREN system and the CAREN control software are:
Robotics for rehabilitation
Introduction of robotics into rehabilitation is now a reality. Many studies have demonstrated the efficacy and advantages of rehabilitation robots for assessing and treating motor impairments in both the upper and lower extremities. MOTEK Medical technology is used to advance efficacy of motor function in patients with motor impairments.
Balance and Locomotion
MOTEK Medical is developing quantitative tools for evaluating stance and gait. Variables like stability, sway, endurance and quality of motion. Also applied research into postural stability and its bio mechanics is progressing at several client facilities in the world. These studies help MOTEK Medical to improve mechanisms of gait impairments and create better therapeutic programs.
Musculoskeletal systems
MOTEK Medical engage in applied research initiatives for studying the behaviors of neurological and musculoskeletal systems, in hopes of better understanding their functions. Current projects that are happening in these fields at client’s hospitals and research facilities are looking at spastic behavior, abnormal muscle force and joint torque applications, and loss of coherent movement control.
Smart Prosthetics
Following amputation, some patients lose independent control over certain muscle groups, resulting in joint movements that are often inappropriate for the functional tasks. Those may be due to the patients’ inability to plan and execute movements correctly after conventional rehabilitation. MOTEK Medical technology assists in quantifying and objectifying new types of prosthetic limbs and their optimal functioning in a myriad of virtual terrains. This type of training can later be transferred to daily life activities.