Balance and Mobility Virtual Assistant

A wearable sensor package connected to a smartphone with a balance and mobility algorithm, tailored by the physical therapist, enables continued training outside the clinic and identifies risky situations via the Risk of Falling Index. The algorithm identifies the patient activity in real-time and assigns a Movement Task Difficulty Score, which is paired with the clinician identified Patient Mobility Score to determine the Risk of Falling Index. The sensor package provides haptics for instantaneous feedback and a smartwatch for detailed feedback to inform that patient in real time, enabling correction prior to a fall event. This sensor package can be located in multiple islands and positions on the body and all communicate to the user’s smartphone, enabling clear feedback to the patient. The clinician will also have a computer application which will allow the tailoring of goals for the patient, using additional information about the patient’s performance in and outside the clinic, supplying the clinician with increased diagnostic information. The goal is to further inform the clinician with meaningful data while providing the patient with a virtual clinician that stays with them after they leave the clinic. The device is meant as a training tool to improve the patient’s mobility in and out of the clinic until the patient can cease use of the device and return to normal activities.