Optima were approached by BAM Innovation to assist in the development of a specialist treatment, rehabilitation and diagnostics tool targeted at the Arthritis care market.
Arthritis, including Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, affects millions worldwide, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the wrists and hands. These symptoms disrupt daily activities, from basic tasks like buttoning a shirt to more complex professional actions. While traditional treatments include physical therapy and medication, integrating advanced technology offered a more personalised and effective solution.
Designing a wrist and hand rehabilitation device required addressing several key aspects. Ergonomic comfort was essential, as the device needed to fit various wrist and hand shapes comfortably to encourage consistent use without additional discomfort. Adjustability was another crucial factor; the device had to offer customizable settings, including resistance levels and movement ranges, to accommodate different levels of arthritis severity. Additionally, a user-friendly interface was crucial to ensure that even users who might not be technologically inclined could operate the device easily with clear instructions.
Safety and effectiveness were top priorities, meaning the device had to be designed to prevent overexertion and injury while incorporating proven rehabilitation principles such as range-of-motion exercises and resistance training. Finally, portability and accessibility were important, so the device needed to be portable and easy to store, making it suitable for home, clinical, or travel use.
The innovative features of the wrist and hand rehabilitation device included several advanced technologies. Dynamic resistance technology offered adjustable settings that provided varying levels of support, ranging from gentle stretching to intensive strengthening, and adapted to the patient’s progress.
The smart feedback system utilized sensors and feedback mechanisms to monitor movements and progress, offering real-time adjustments and feedback to enhance rehabilitation effectiveness. An interactive app integrated with the device tracked progress, guided exercises, and provided motivational support, helping users stay engaged in their rehabilitation journey. The custom exercise routines could be either programmed by the user or carer to make the product more accessible without a smart device, providing feedback through haptics and lights rather than through a secondary device.
Comfort-focused materials, such as soft, breathable padding and customizable straps, ensured prolonged comfort and accommodated different wrist and hand sizes. Additionally, the modular design allowed for component adjustments based on specific needs, ensuring that the device remained relevant as the patient’s condition evolved.
Designing the device involved a multidisciplinary approach that encompassed several key stages. Research and development included collaboration with medical professionals and patients to identify requirements and refine designs through prototyping and testing. Prototyping focused on precision engineering to ensure durability and functionality, with careful selection of materials and manufacturing processes for a reliable product.
Clinical trials and evaluation were crucial for validating efficacy and safety, with testing in clinical settings providing feedback that guided further refinements. During the subsequent launch and support phase, comprehensive support and training will provided to ensure users can maximize the benefits of the device, while continuous feedback will help maintain and enhance its performance.
The development of this specialist device marked a significant advancement in arthritis management, focusing on ergonomic design, user comfort, and innovation. This tool not only facilitated physical recovery but also empowered users to regain control over their daily lives. Through ongoing research and development, the future of rehabilitation technology continued to offer hope for improved mobility and reduced pain.