A GLOVE TO HELP REGAIN MOTOR FUNCTIONS AFTER STROKE

Edited by, JASPER VICTORIA

A stroke is a medical emergency which occurs due to the ischaemia of the brain tissues as a result of which the brain tissues lack oxygen (hypoxia) and nutrients such as glucose essential for its functioning.

A stroke may cause mobility problems or paralysis by affecting the motor functions, which may or may not be later restored by supportive therapies like physiotherapy etc.

We require different and particular precision and grip to lift or hold every different objects, which needs proper motor and cognitive neurological assistance and function. 

Scientists of the Massachusetts institute of technology have now innovated  a glove which can sense, map and measure the precise and varied dexterities associated with various motor activity.

The gloves consist of sensors capable of detecting even minute tactile pressure or vibrations caused. They observed the varied results of holding or taking grip of objects like balloon and a beaker, on which the gloves sensed, mapped and were able to measure the increased pressure at the palm while holding a balloon and increased pressure in the fingertips while lifting or holding a beaker.

The sensors are small capacitors that measure the humidity, they consist of two electrodes and a dielectric material between them. The dielectric substance pool up ions in humid conditions, through which the ions are quantified as charge and are hence interpreted.

The sensors are the type of sensors used in HVAC systems. They could even detect the pulse. The glove has much further detailing to enabling it to be used for the maximal benefit.

It can hence be used as an aid in patients who suffered a stroke or any neurological condition and have their motor functions such as holding, gripping, writing skills affected. The glove would be beneficial in helping them feel and view the pressure they exert or they need to exert for varied movements of their hands and promote their improvement.