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São Carlos, Brazil – A groundbreaking cell phone application developed by Brazilian researchers is offering new hope for stroke survivors struggling with hemiparesis, a debilitating condition characterized by muscle weakness or partial paralysis on one side of the body. The innovative app utilizes a smartphone’s built-in accelerometer to monitor posture and provide real-time feedback, aiding in rehabilitation.
Developed by researchers at the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) and the Institute of Mathematical and Computational Sciences at the University of São Paulo (ICMC-USP), the application addresses the challenges of hemiparesis, often a result of stroke, but also seen in conditions like multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and certain cancers.
“The person with hemiparesis loses sensitivity and perception of spatial organization. As a result, they may tip to one side and not realize it, and even experience muscle pain from the misalignment,” explained Amanda Polin Pereira, professor at UFSCar and lead author of the study published in JMIR Aging. “They may also be unable to perform everyday tasks such as walking, cooking, driving or climbing stairs without correct posture.”
The app uses the smartphone’s accelerometer to detect the user’s body inclination when the device is placed in a pocket sewn into their clothing. It then provides feedback through voice commands, vibrations, or visual cues, guiding users to correct their posture. This helps to retrain body awareness and trunk control, which are often compromised after a stroke.
The development process involved extensive collaboration between software developers and healthcare professionals. Researchers interviewed physiotherapists and occupational therapists to understand treatment needs and consulted with patients undergoing rehabilitation.
“From a software development point of view, it was a co-development job that really brought together two different areas of knowledge to meet the needs of patients,” said Maria da Graça Campos Pimentel, professor at ICMC-USP. “This gave us a lot of agility and support in developing the application, which is completely unique. There’s nothing like it in the clinic to help treat and rehabilitate these patients.”
The app underwent testing at a rehabilitation center, demonstrating its potential to improve posture during therapy sessions. Researchers are now planning a study on the long-term use of the app in home settings.
The development team focused on simplicity, opting for a user-friendly design that utilizes readily available smartphone technology. “We started with the idea of a wearable app, but we realized that the simpler it was, the better it would be accepted by patients,” Pimentel stated.
The researchers aim to make the app freely available and leverage the data collected to further understand hemiparesis. They are seeking collaboration and funding to ensure the app’s ongoing development and maintenance.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on information provided in the given source material. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers should consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice and information. The effectiveness of the described application may vary depending on individual circumstances. Further research and development are ongoing.
