This project aims to develop a rehabilitation robot specifically designed to help children with neuromuscular diseases, such as spinal muscular atrophy and Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophies. These diseases often affect the upper limbs, which play a crucial role in children's daily lives. Traditional physical rehabilitation helps slow the progression of these diseases, but it requires significant human resources and is not always frequent or intensive enough. Furthermore, monitoring the progression of the disease often relies on methods based on rating scales, the results of which can vary depending on the evaluator and their experience.
In this context, the project therefore consists of creating a robot to assist with the rehabilitation of children's upper limbs. This robot will be able to adapt to the specific needs of each patient using an advanced control system that automatically adjusts resistance and assistance based on the child's progress. One of the major advantages of this robot is its ability to collect data in real time, allowing for more precise tracking of patient progress and personalization of rehabilitation exercises. Another key objective is to make this technology accessible, particularly by making it affordable and easily usable remotely through telerehabilitation. This would make it possible to reach a larger number of children, including those living in remote areas.
In summary, this project seeks to develop a low-cost robotic solution, specifically tailored to children, to help them maintain or recover motor functions and thus offer them greater autonomy in their daily lives. The robot could become an essential tool for pediatric rehabilitation professionals and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable society.
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Abolfazl Mohebbi, Associate Professor at Polytechnique Montréal, abolfazl.mohebbi@polymtl.ca
Thomas Imbeault-Nepton, PhD Candidate at Polytechnique Montréal, thomas.imbeault-nepton@etud.polymtl.ca