Instrumented Sleeve for Joint Pain Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining the location and severity of joint pain, such as in the knee, are subjective and imprecise, relying on two-dimensional drawings and questionnaires, which do not accurately assess pain or joint operation.
Innovation Solution
A sleeve made of 'smart' fabric interwoven with sensors that communicates with a computing device and display, allowing for precise detection and display of pain information in real-time, including EMG sensors for muscle activity analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If two-dimensional pain drawings and subjective questionnaires are used to assess joint pain, then the assessment method is simple and easy to implement, but the measurement precision and accuracy of pain location and severity determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple assessment modalities (kinematic analysis, EMG sensors, pressure sensors, temperature sensors, and subjective questionnaire data) into a single integrated three-dimensional pain mapping system. This merging of diverse data sources enables precise localization and quantification of joint pain while maintaining systematic organization through centralized data processing and visualization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional pain drawings to three-dimensional pain mapping by incorporating spatial coordinates, depth information, and multi-layer sensor data. The system creates volumetric representations of pain distribution within the joint, adding dimensional complexity that significantly improves measurement precision for pain location and severity assessment.
2Measurement precision
If kinematic analysis devices are used to determine joint operation, then joint movement parameters can be measured, but the ability to determine pain location and severity is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a multi-functional assessment system that simultaneously performs kinematic analysis, EMG monitoring, pressure distribution measurement, temperature sensing, and pain mapping. This universal device can assess multiple aspects of joint function and pathology in a single integrated platform, making it adaptable to various diagnostic needs while improving pain determination precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges previously separate assessment functions (kinematic analysis, muscle activity monitoring, pressure sensing) into a unified system. By combining these functions, the device achieves both comprehensive joint operation analysis and precise pain localization, resolving the limitation of specialized single-function devices.
3Reliability
If subjective health outcome questionnaires are used for pain assessment, then patient feedback can be collected, but the objectivity and precision of pain determination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates both objective sensor data (kinematic, EMG, pressure, temperature) and subjective patient feedback (questionnaire responses) into an integrated assessment model. The system uses feedback loops where sensor data validates and refines patient reports, while patient feedback contextualizes sensor measurements, together improving objective pain determination reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines objective physiological measurements with subjective patient-reported outcomes in a unified pain assessment framework. This merging allows the system to leverage the strengths of both approaches: the objectivity and precision of sensor data and the contextual insights from patient feedback, thereby improving overall assessment reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A sleeve is provided for determining the location and severity of joint pain in a patient. The sleeve includes sensors in communication with a display device that allow for areas of pain to be quickly and accurately determined. Methods of utilizing the sleeve are also disclosed.