Variable weight units, computing device kit applications, and method of use

Abstract

The present invention is generally directed to systems and methods that enable a therapist to develop a therapeutic exercise for a patient. In one embodiment, a position tracking sensor is used by a patient, the movement of which can be recorded by an electronic computing device. The electronic computing device records the position tracking sensor movement as the therapist directs the patient to make a particular physical movement. The collected data enables the therapist to establish a range of motion for the patient and an exercise to enable the patient to increase the range of motion. The systems and methods then continue to monitor patient progress.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 244,908, entitled “ERGONOMIC HELD WEIGHT UNITS, RELATED COMPUTING DEVICE APPLICATIONS, AND METHOD OF USE” filed Aug. 23, 2016, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Much in the way normal physical activity complements structured exercise in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, daily use of injured or affected limbs, in addition to intensive physical therapy sessions, is critical to rehabilitation outcomes. The integration of weighted limbs, particularly with light weight, during therapeutic movements and the monitoring of these movements with smart devices is a growing area of interest in physical therapy.[0003]Often doctors, physical therapists, care givers, family and even friends are tasked with assisting those injured or affected by a physical or mental impairment, disability, or both, with daily rehabilitative...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a system that uses tracking sensors to monitor and evaluate the movements of patients during physical therapy. This system can create a personalized therapeutic routine for each patient, based on their unique needs and range of motion. It can also help reduce the need for in-person visits with a therapist, saving time and money. The system can also identify and track the patient's movements in real-time, providing motivation and feedback for the patient and their caregiver. Additionally, the system can use data from the tracking sensors to create a video game that can help the patient achieve their therapeutic goals. Overall, this technology advancement can improve the effectiveness and efficiency of physical therapy.

Problems solved by technology

In addition to those assisting with the recovery of an injured or effected person, the afflicted individual is often tasked with the burden of performing daily therapeutic tasks or prescribed movements on their own and often unsupervised.

While demand for physical therapists varies by geographical region and area of practice, the unemployment rates are low across the country.

While the demand for physical therapists is on the rise in the United States, there is an alarming increase in unpaid or denied claims.

The goniometer is the most common method employed to measure joint angles when determining patient ROM; however, it has several limitations with respect to different therapists obtaining identical and precise measurements.

The goniometer is sometimes difficult to position and maintain the arm locations along the bones of the segments throughout the measurement, and the axis of rotation is not always clear, especially for complex joint movements.

This makes it impossible to test ROM without having the therapist or another skilled individual present with the patient.

Tracking ROM through the use of a goniometer is also time consuming and adds to the duration of the physical therapy session; therefore, a system that is constantly tracking ROM in conjunction with physical movement would give constant feedback, data, and results without adding time to the rehabilitation process.

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