Medical Devices
Foot Harness for Patients Relearning to Walk
WARF: P150292US01
Inventors: Kreg Gruben, Wendy Boehm
The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) is seeking commercial partners interested in developing a foot strap device that supports safe and natural motion on clinical training apparatus.
Overview
Walking impairment can be caused by many factors such as aging, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy and other conditions that disrupt balance and posture. Stroke, for example, is the leading cause of severe long-term disability. Retraining patients to walk is a challenging but vital part of recovery, and safety is imperative.
The Invention
UW–Madison researchers have developed a first-of-its-kind foot strap that can attach to training equipment. The strap fits easily and securely around a patient’s own shoe without impeding his or her normal stride. The strap features a safety release mechanism and electronic sensor to stop the exercise if the patient loses balance.
Applications
- Walk training
- Rehabilitation/physical therapy clinics, hospitals and research institutions
Key Benefits
- Encourages safe and natural motion
- Prevents slippage
- Elegant, robust design
Stage of Development
The harness has been tested on patients.
Additional Information
Related Technologies
Tech Fields
For current licensing status, please contact Jeanine Burmania at [javascript protected email address] or 608-960-9846