Gyroscope setup used for the tracking game along with an example cursor path and participant cursor.
Invention Summary:
One out of every four older adults fall every year in the US, leading to potentially devastating consequences. In addition to muscle strength assessment and training, which is the primary research focus, proprioceptive assessment and improvement is critical since it can be the major or primary contributing factor to postural balance and poor balance recovery from tripping. Current approaches for assessing proprioceptive performance are not reliable or sensitive to age-related changes. Further, no intervention exists to improve muscle proprioceptive performance in high fall risk older adults with proprioceptive deficits.
Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a software and system for practicing and assessing proprioceptive performance, specifically movement of the ankle joint. A subject tracks the movement of a marker on a screen with their foot, and the movement of the foot is tracked by a motion sensor. A software analyzes whether the person was able to accurately follow the movement of the marker. The result includes a numerical index that can be used to diagnose proprioceptive deficits and assess fall risk.
Market Applications:
Software and hardware (fitbit or similar) to improve proprioceptive movement in physical therapy appointments, for both elderly persons and injured patients
Can also be used to assess and track ankle movement in a physician appointment, within the context of clinics, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.
Advantages:
An accurate, reliable, quick, engaging, and standard test
Doesn’t require specialized equipment
Results are sensitive to age-related changes in proprioception
Intellectual Property & Development Status: Patent pending. Software available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships contact marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu