Abstract: A system for posture and movement regulation includes at least one body-position sensor unit, at least one arithmetic unit, and at least one output unit for outputting an acoustic signal, and/or at least one output unit for outputting a vibration signal.

Abstract: A biomechanically optimizing mobile device use system having a mobile computer device with readable storage and a display; an orientation determination system included with the mobile device and adapted to determine a position of the mobile device; and, an operating system that, when the mobile device is powered on and upon each repositioning of the mobile device, is adapted to: determine a current position, determine a reference position relative to one of a vertical position and a face down position, determine a stress angle of the mobile device according to a difference between the current position and the reference position, and, actuate a user notification according to a determination that the stress angle exceeds a predetermined angle for a predetermined length of time.

Abstract: An orthopedic system to monitor a parameter related to the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The orthopedic system includes electronic circuitry, at least one sensor, and a computer to receive measurement data in real-time. The orthopedic system comprises a first plurality of shims of a first type, a second plurality of a second type, a measurement module, and the computer. The measurement module houses the electronic circuitry and at least one sensor. The measurement module is adapted to be used with the first plurality of shims and the second plurality of shims. The measurement module has a medial surface that differs from a lateral surface by shape, size, or contour.

Abstract: A portable quantification apparatus for assessing joint accessory movement is disclosed in the present invention. The apparatus includes a reference unit, a movement unit, a sliding unit and a displacement sensor. The reference unit has a first probe and a first force sensor. The movement unit has a second probe and a second force sensor. The sliding unit is disposed between the reference unit and the movement unit which allows the movement unit to slide alongside with the reference unit. When a patient is under a test, the first probe is against one of two adjacent bones of a joint, while the second probe is against the other adjacent bone. The first force sensor and the second force sensor sense a first force and a second force applying to the reference unit and the movement unit respectively. The displacement sensor measures a relative movement of the movement unit over the reference unit.

Abstract: In order to avoid chronic damage for people performing physical labor and to support the execution of activities, an exoskeleton is provided as a support device with a device for implementing rotational and translational human movements. The exoskeleton, which is coupled to at least one body part of a person, comprises at least one man-technology interface, a device for implementing rotational and translational human movements, and an actuating unit which, under certain circumstances, is supplemented by a sensor system and a controller.

Abstract: Devices and methods for implantation of an orthopedic device between skeletal segments using limited surgical dissection. The implanted devices are used to adjust and maintain the spatial relationship(s) of adjacent bones. Depending on the implant design, the motion between the skeletal segments may be increased, limited, modified, or completely immobilized.

Abstract: A biofeedback virtual reality (VR) system and methods are provided for improving, optimizing, or minimizing the physiological or psychological effects of a medical condition, such as a physiological or psychological condition of a patient. The biofeedback VR System monitors one or more physiological parameters while presenting an immersive VR environment. The system and method comprise a closed-loop biofeedback system where a user (i.e., patient) observes a VR Experience provided by the VR System. The VR System monitors one or more physiological parameters while guiding the user to an improved (or optimized) physiological state through improvement of one or more of the physiological parameters. In some embodiments, a social experience is included in the VR, where the user engages with one or more other users in the VR Experience.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for monitoring posture of a user of a wearable apparatus. In one implementation, the system may include an image sensor configured to capture one or more images from an environment of the user of the wearable apparatus and at least one processing device. The at least one processing device may be configured to analyze the one or more images to determine at least one indicator of the posture of the user, determine feedback for the user based on the at least one indicator of the posture of the user, and cause the feedback to be output to the user.

Abstract: An introducer set includes an introducer and dilator along with an extension in a sealed sterile peal open package. The extension is available for use during procedures where the puncture access site to the patient is close enough to the site to be treated in the patient that the physician's hands and/or head may be positioned in the fluroscopic area while the physician is attempting to maneuver a wire guide to a desired location. When the extension is attached to the introducer, the physician may perform a procedure, such as an antigrade stick in the lower leg of a patient, while maintaining their hands and head outside of the fluroscopic area while direct radiation is being supplied and the wire guide is being maneuvered to a desired treatment location.

Abstract: A framework for patient management based on anatomic measurements is described herein. In accordance with one aspect, patient records are clustered into a set of sub-populations based on first anatomic measurements and characteristics extracted from first patient data associated with a population of patients. A representative sub-population similar to a patient may be determined from the set of sub-populations based on the patient data of the patient. A report that presents the second anatomic measurements associated with the patient in relation to corresponding first anatomic measurements associated with the representative sub-population may then be generated.

Abstract: Methods and devices for identifying the 4th and the 5th intercostal spaces for the purpose of proper placement of ECG precordial leads, regardless of the patient's height and/or weight. By calculating the sternal length, the distance between the sternal notch and the xiphoid process, the locations of the 4th and 5th intercostal spaces can be determined. The present invention also features devices for measuring the length and to indicate to a user the location of the 4th and 5th intercostal spaces based on the measured sternal length. The methods and devices provide a more accurate identification of the 4th and the 5th intercostal spaces resulting in proper ECG lead placement, which then facilitates accurate ECG interpretation.

Abstract: A method of planning the correction of spinal deformations of a subject, by performing segmentation on a three dimensional image of the subject's spine in its erect neutral position, such that the positions and orientations of the vertebrae in a region of interest are characterized. Parameters relating to the alignment and position of the vertebrae are derived from the segmentation, followed by determining whether the parameters fall within an acceptable range desired for the spine of the subject. If not within the acceptable range, an alignment optimization is performed on the vertebrae to bring the parameters within the acceptable range, to reduce the spinal deformations of the subject's spine. The alignment optimization is performed by taking into consideration limitations arising from the dynamic range of motion of the vertebrae as determined by analyzing images of the subject's spine, while the subject is in positions of maximum bending.

Abstract: Electronic devices that detect their position and/or orientation with respect to earth's frame of reference are described. A coupler can removeably maintain the electronic devices in physical proximity of one another. Each electronic device can have a housing and the coupler can be included on the housing and arranged to physically connect the housing of the electronic device to the housing of at least one other electronic device. Alternatively, the coupler can be a packaging that maintains the electronic devices in physical proximity of one another. Each electronic device can be calibrated using the orientation or position information obtained by other electronic devices maintained by the coupler. Further, each electronic device can include a power source that remains inactive until the device is ready for use.

Abstract: Techniques for shielding wearable surface electromyography (sEMG) devices are described. According to some aspects, an sEMG device may comprise amplification circuitry comprising at least a first differential amplifier and at least two sEMG electrodes electrically connected to the amplification circuitry. The device may further comprise at least one auxiliary conductor not electrically connected to the amplification circuitry, wherein the at least one auxiliary conductor is configured to be electrically coupled to a wearer of the wearable device, and an electromagnetic shield surrounding the wearable device at least in part and electrically connected to the at least one auxiliary conductor.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to method and system for automatic, distributed, computer-aided, and intelligent data collection/analytics, health monitoring, health condition identification, and patient preventive/remedial health advocacy.

Abstract: Disclosed herein a method of determining the type of human body in a thermo-therapeutic apparatus. In the method of determining the type of human body in a thermo-therapeutic apparatus, a control unit scans the entire spine of a user by moving a moxibustion device using a horizontal motor, measures the operating current of the horizontal motor, calculates the length of the spine of the human body based on the measured operating current, and precisely determines the positions of the cervical vertebrae, the thoracic vertebrae, the lumbar vertebrae, and the coccyx that form the spine. As a result, acupuncture points suitable for a specific person are calculated and then the calculated acupuncture points are enabled to be used to administer thermotherapy.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for detecting tremors includes a contactless tremor detector, the detector including an oscillator circuit having a sensing coil, an oscillator configured to generate alternating electromagnetic fields, and a frequency counter configured to sense the resonant frequency of the oscillator circuit as the resonant frequency changes in response to movement of a body part of an individual adjacent to the sensing coil, wherein the system is configured to determine a frequency of movement of the body part from the sensed resonant frequency for the purpose of determining if the individual is experiencing tremors.

Abstract: A system for measuring the displacements of a vertebral column having a segment comprising at least one vertebra having a body delimited by an upper vertebral end plate and a lower vertebral end plate, and each vertebra in the segment having a location marker associated, attached thereto and providing a location system with an orientation of the location marker, the system including a localizer configured to detect the initial orientations of the location markers, and a microprocessor configured to determine, for each vertebra, an initial orientation of a vertebral plane parallel to at least one end plate of the vertebra, and to determine the current orientation of the vertebral plane of the vertebra from the current orientation of the location marker associated and the geometrical transformation associated with the vertebra.

Abstract: Altering a display of visual information in real time on an electronic visual display of a mobile computing system to encourage desirable behavior, such as spinal posture. In an embodiment, a system determines an angle of inclination of a mobile computing system, which is indicative of a spinal posture of a user of the system. When the user's spinal posture is within an angular range that corresponds to a less desirable spinal posture, the system progressively alters a display of visual information by an electronic visual display of the system to encourage the user toward a more desirable spinal posture.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to method and system for automatic, distributed, computer-aided, and intelligent data collection/analytics, health monitoring, health condition identification, and patient preventive/remedial health advocacy.

Abstract: Interactive system provides training and assessments relating to joint stabilization capabilities and reaction-based performance for diverse populations. This system may enhance the subject's ability to generate and deliver power as a direct byproduct of properly timed decelerations originating with the effectors and supported by the verticality of the spine. Said decelerations also provide functional means for improving joint stabilization capabilities via improved co-contraction of the shoulder(s) joints and other anatomical locations on the subject. The resulting data may serve as the basis for predictive analytics relating to joint stabilization and the associated risk of orthopedic injuries. This system may also train/improve the dampening of internal forces resulting from aggressive weight bearing movements, and more effectively dissipate the force of received physical impacts.

Abstract: A strain sensor device having a biological substrate composed of a standalone bone graft or an isolated piece of bone that can be incorporated directly into, or attached to another piece of bone that is then implantable, in a biological subject, and a method thereof. The strain sensor device can includes a strain sensing circuit, which is composed of at least a first dielectric layer and a first conductive layer, that functions as a strain gauge. The first dielectric layer can be composed of dielectric material disposed over the biological substrate. The first conductive layer, which has a pattern, can be disposed over the first dielectric material. A bonding interface is disposed between the biological substrate and the first dielectric layer. The bonding interface can be composed of an underlayer of polydimethylsiloxane and a first interface layer. The underlayer can be disposed on the bone graft substrate.

Abstract: A system for determining the location of patients uses a patient-associated communicator which wirelessly communicates with a network of environmental reference communicators arranged at fixed or otherwise known locations. A camera can be used to monitor or detect pressure ulcers and relay the information to a host system. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for the prevention of bodily injuries through active monitoring of bodily postures, supporting a body while in or restricting a body from entering predetermined postures which heighten the body's susceptibility to injury, and alerting one or more entities (e.g., an apparatus user) of a body's susceptibility to injury is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the method may include one or more operations including monitoring one or more bodily postures and/or bodily movements, storing data associated with bodily postures and/or bodily movements, determining a risk of injury associated with bodily postures and/or bodily movements, and alerting one or more entities when a risk of injury associated with bodily postures and/or bodily movements reaches a predetermined level.

Abstract: The objective of the present invention to provide a method for accurately and safely specifying a leakage part of cerebrospinal fluid in a cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia patient, and a method for effectively treating cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia with utilizing the specifying method. The method for specifying a leakage part of cerebrospinal fluid in a cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia patient according to the present invention is characterized in comprising the steps of injecting saline into a bone-marrow space of a spine of the cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia patient, and detecting the cerebrospinal fluid or the injected saline leaked from a dura mater of the spine to specify the leakage part of the cerebrospinal fluid.

Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for warning a user about undesirable motion of a first portion of the user's body relative to a second portion of the user's body. In one representative embodiment, an apparatus for warning a user about motion of a first portion of the user's body relative to a second portion of the user's body comprises at least one sensor configured to measure the angle of the first portion of the user's body relative to a reference. The sensor is configured to be worn on the user's body, and is in communication with a controller. A warning mechanism is also in communication with the controller, and the controller is operable to activate the warning mechanism upon movement of the first portion of the user's body relative to the second portion of the user's body beyond a predetermined angle relative to the reference.

Abstract: A device for monitoring a medical prosthesis and the human body includes a sensor for generating signals depending on surrounding stresses, a processor for processing the signals emitted by the sensor in order to convert the signals into data, a storage device for storing the data, a device for wireless transmission of the stored data, and a supply of electrical energy. The device is included in at least one casing, which is made of biocompatible material and has a device for fixing to a bone.

Abstract: Systems and methods provide patient position information to a user. A patient positioning device is placed on a patient in a predefined location. The patient positioning device determines a relative patient position with respect to at least one known reference axis. The patient positioning device communicates patient position information including or with reference to the at least one known reference axis. The communicated patient position information allows the user to position the patient and/or a surgical tool using the communicated patient position information.

Abstract: There is described a system, method, and computer-readable medium having stored thereon executable program code for generating a final Cobb angle prediction for idiopathic scoliosis, the method comprising: receiving patient-specific 3D morphological spine parameters, a selected curve type, and a selected skeletal maturity; applying the patient-specific 3D morphological spine parameters, a selected curve type, and a selected skeletal maturity to a predictive model based on 3D morphological spine parameters, curve type, and skeletal maturity, and generating the final Cobb angle prediction by modeling a progression curve of the idiopathic scoliosis.

Abstract: High friction scapular retraction straps for application directly to the tops of the respective shoulders of a patient and connected with tension straps to draw the gripper straps and, consequently, the shoulders rearwardly, and including fasteners to fasten to a garment worn by the patient to hold the shoulders rearward.

Abstract: A catheter is provided that includes an external sheath, a rotatable conduit housed within the external sheath, and a fluid rotary joint having a rotatable insert that places an inner lumen of the rotatable conduit in fluid communication with an external port under rotation of the rotatable conduit. The rotatable insert may include a channel structure including an external annular channel. The rotatable conduit is received within the channel structure such that the inner lumen is in fluid communication with the external port through the annular channel under rotation. The external sheath may define an outer lumen that may be in fluid communication with the inner lumen at a location remote from a proximal portion of the catheter, and the outer lumen may be in fluid communication with a secondary port. The rotatable conduit may be housed within a torque cable that is connected to the rotatable insert.

Abstract: An apparatus for displaying acupuncture points according to the present invention recognizes a curved surface of a human body via 3D scanning, and then sets acupuncture points corresponding to the body surface that has been recognized to project them onto the body. More specifically, the apparatus for displaying acupuncture points comprises: a 3D scanner for performing 3D scanning; a control unit for setting acupuncture points by using the data that has been scanned by the 3D scanner; and a projection unit for projecting the acupuncture points that have been set by the control unit onto the body. Accordingly, the present invention allows accurate selection of acupuncture points on a highly curved surface of a human body.

Abstract: A multi-nodal distributed operant conditioning system and method consisting of a user node and one or more networked subject nodes. A user audience at a user node engages in operant conditioning with a subject at a networked subject node by observing real time image data of the subject and effecting operant conditioning signals to the subject in response to operantly offered behaviors by the subject. The multi-nodal, distributed nature of the embodiments provides for uses by a user audience in educational, entertainment, or therapeutic behavioral modification settings.

Abstract: A thermotherapy device having a human body scan function. The device includes a thermo-ceramic unit (110), a transfer motor unit (120) configured to make the thermo-ceramic unit (110) move along a longitudinal direction of a user's backbone, a motor variation generation module (220) configured to measure variations in load of the transfer motor unit (120), and a backbone information generation module (240) configured to generate information about a shape of the user's backbone using data of the motor variation generation module (220).

Abstract: Devices and corresponding methods for the correction of spinal column deformities, vertebral displacements and for the surgical fixation of the spine including vertebral fixing element(s), vertebral connector element(s), and polyaxial correcting element(s) that can house along its structure varying specifically oriented correction element(s). The polyaxial correcting element(s) are mobilized with the help of correcting force element(s) that induce a three-dimensional mobilization of the polyaxial correcting elements and the vertebrae to which these are attached. Longitudinal spinal fixing element(s) provide for the definitive fixation of the spine. The longitudinal spinal fixing element(s) are joined and fixed to the vertebral fixing element(s) or to permanent vertebral connector element(s).

Abstract: The disclosure provides a system that displays an indicator of patient posture state that changes according to posture state data. The posture state data may be transmitted from a medical device, for example, in or near real-time. In some examples, the disclosure relates to a method comprising receiving posture state data for a patient from a medical device; and presenting an indicator indicative of two or more of posture states based on the received posture state data, wherein each posture state of the two or more posture states is determined based on different detection criteria.

Abstract: A device for assessing the spinal column intends to assess the lateral curvatures and deviations in the spinal column, in a standing position. It can be a non-invasive instrument that allows reproducing the position of each vertebra in the spinal column, from the first cervical vertebra to the first sacral vertebra. The device can include or consist of two parts: a first part designated as body and a second part defined as support. The first part can include or can consist of a vertical piece (that fits in the support) and several horizontal pieces. Each horizontal piece will touch the spinal crest of each vertebra in the spinal column, from the first cervical vertebra to the first sacral vertebra. The support can include or can consist of two pieces: a vertical piece, wherein the instrument's body vertical piece is fitted and a base whereon the feet of the patient under assessment are placed.

Abstract: A system and method for providing therapy and assessment utilizing vibrotactile feedback is disclosed. Such treatment is useful for the assessment and treatment of disequilibrium, movement and balance disorders. The system and method measures a subject's performance of predetermined tasks with respect to expected parameters using sensors such as force plates, inertial sensors, and three dimensional cameras. Predetermined motions are motions such as stand, sit-to-stand, reach, bend, functional gait, functional gait plus headshake, and other functional tasks. Vibrotactile stimulation may be applied during the subject's performance as disruptive input. Variance and rate of change of variance between measured and expected parameters is used as a tool for assessment of said subject, and is also used for providing real-time vibrotactile training to said subject. The invention is useful in the treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), neurologic disorders causing disequilibrium and balance disorders, and the like.

Abstract: A measurement device for measuring activity of the spinal cord of a vertebrate. The device includes at least one main probe (1) shaped to be fastened to a spinous process (2) of a vertebra (3) and to hold in position on opposite sides of the vertebra at least one emitter (6) for emitting a wave capable of interacting with the spinal cord (7) and at least one associated receiver (8) for receiving the wave that has interacted with the spinal cord and for generating a signal representative of the activity of the spinal cord.

Abstract: A videofluoroscopy accessory device adapted to securely and removably attach to an X-ray head of a fluoroscopy system or device. The videofluoroscopy accessory device on the current invention provides a platform for enhancing and supplementing the surgical environment with additional accessories. The accessories that could be used with the present invention include but are not limited to lights, cameras, microphones, and other medical equipment/tools for optimizing the surgical environment.

Abstract: A goniometer has three potentiometers with axes of rotation that intersect at a point for measuring angular range of motion of an anatomy, such as of the spine or jointed appendages. The intersecting axes facilitate calculation of angle based on potentiometer output and allow the rotations on each of the three axes to be measured independently and simultaneously without mechanical or electrical cross talk. The angular measurements may be recorded on a computer for analysis and playback and may be continuously captured over a range of motion. The captured data may be compared to samples from the same person or others to aid in assessment of function.

Abstract: A method for determining if surgically-implanted cervical, thoracic or lumbar hardware should be removed from an individual. The method utilizes diagnostic data acquired from a test protocol performed by an electrodiagnostics functional assessment (EFA) device. The diagnostic data is selected from the group consisting of electromyography (EMG), range-of-motion (ROM), functional capacity assessment (ECA), muscle data, myofascial data, structural data, nerve data or ischemic data.

Abstract: A method for measuring the depth for installing a pedicle screw comprises utilizing a pedicle depth measuring apparatus which comprises an outer tubular member comprising a first end and a second end. A head member is joined to the second end. The head member comprises a base surface comprising an opening. An inner member is slidable within the outer tubular member. The inner member comprises a first end and a second end, the second end being slidable through the opening. The second end further comprises a marker disposed at a distal end. The marker comprises a material that is radiographically distinguishable, in which a placement of the marker within a cannulation of a patient's pedicle is observable. An indicator member is operable for indicating a distance between the marker and the base surface, in which the distance indicates a choice of a size of a pedicle screw for mitigating damage to the patient's nerve root.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for the diagnosis, amelioration, and treatment of back pain, particularly lumbar back pain, in particular, back pain caused by muscular abnormalities, vertebral body osteoporosis, and disc degeneration. Patients with back pain are categorized into specific subsets that are deemed to have potential to respond to therapy. In particular, the invention includes a therapy involving stimulation of neovascularization so as to increase perfusion of various spine compartments.

Abstract: Parameters related to use of a prosthesis by a patient with a limb amputation are monitored using a tool that includes one or more piezoelectric force sensors. The resulting data are processed for use both in short and long term management of amputee patients. The sensor is a small modular unit that fits within or between traditional prosthetic components, e.g., below a prosthesis socket. The data produced by the tool are collected, processed, and stored. Optionally, the data are periodically communicated to a remote site via a network, e.g., over the Internet. The device and associated software used to process the data can be used to characterize activities conducted by a prosthesis user, to determine pistoning or threatening interface stress distributions between the limb and socket, mal-alignment of the socket, use of improper components, and other possibly undesired conditions that the amputee patient using the prosthesis may be experiencing.

Abstract: In order to monitor an individual's posture, a cable is incorporated within a garment that is configured to be worn on an individual's upper body such that at least a portion of the cable spans an upper back region of the garment. A sensor is configured to monitor tension in the cable and to generate an alert when the tension in the cable exceeds a threshold level.

Abstract: The disclosed invention is an instrument for measuring posture in a patient. The instrument comprises a measuring instrument, further comprising a perpendicular member mechanically coupled to a fixed marker and a sliding marker. The fixed marker and the sliding marker can mark a poster instrument. The poster instrument is mechanically coupled to right side banner track which is mechanically coupled to three track screws, a left side banner track which is mechanically coupled three track screws and an upper banner track, which is mechanically coupled to an upper track screw. An examiner can utilize the measuring instrument to mark the poster instrument and maneuver the track screws to determine difference in measurements at head, shoulders, iliac crests, and vertical head measurement in a repeatable and consistent manner.

Abstract: In general, the invention is directed to a technique for percutaneously introducing a stimulation lead into a target stimulation site via the epidural region proximate the spine of a patient. The process of introducing the stimulation lead may include the use of a hollow stimulation lead introducer, which comprises an elongated sheath and an elongated dilator. The dilator fits within the sheath and serves to widen a path through the epidural region for the introduction of a stimulation lead. At least a portion of the stimulation lead introducer has an oblong cross-section, allowing passage of stimulation leads such as paddle leads. The stimulation lead introducer may enter the epidural region proximate a spine of a patient via a guidewire. The stimulation lead introducer provides a path through the epidural region of a patient to a target stimulation site. A stimulation lead may travel through the path to reach the target stimulation site where it may provide therapy to the patient.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for fully automated segmentation of human vertebral body images in a CT (computerized tomography) study with no user interaction and no phantoms, which has resiliency to anatomical abnormalities, and protocol and scanner variations. The method was developed to enable automated detection of osteoporosis in CT studies performed for other clinical reasons. Testing with 1,044 abdominal CTs from multiple sites, resulted in detection of 96.3% of the vertebral bodies and 1% false positives. Of the detected vertebral bodies, 83.3% were segmented adequately for sagittal plane quantitative evaluation of vertebral fractures indicative of osteoporosis. Improved results were observed when selecting the best sagittal plane of 3 for each vertebra, yielding a segmentation success rate of 85.4%. The method is preferably implemented in software as a building block in a system for automated osteoporosis detection.

Abstract: A therapeutic method for treating a neurological disease by accessing a neuraxial deformity and abnormal neuraxial stress. The method involves calculating a neuraxial stress, determining whether the neurological disorder is attributed at least in part to the neuraxial stress; and treating the neurological disorder by normalizing the neuraxial stress.