Powered Hand Grip Orthosis for Functional Independence

Project Summary/Abstract Rush River Research proposes to develop a new powered handgrip device with a novel control system that is easily donned/doffed to restore functional independence for persons living with spinal cord injuries. In the United States, 285,000 people live with spinal cord injuries (SCIs), and 17,000 new cases occur each year. More than half of SCIs are cervical injuries, which result in various levels of tetraplegia. In a survey aimed at uncovering recovery priorities of cervical SCI patients, nearly 50% of respondents reported that re-gaining arm and hand function would most significantly improve their quality of life. Orthotics have been shown to improve strength and neuromuscular health and improve independence in activities of daily living (ADLs) in individuals with cervical SCI, but most existing technology is aimed at restoring arm, not hand function, leaving a critical gap in the market. Rush River Research has assembled a team of experienced orthotics developers and a clinical collaborator to ensure the design meets the needs of the target population.Project Narrative Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are devastating, life-altering events which frequently affect active young people, dramatically altering their physical function and quality of life. Orthotics and assistive devices have been shown to improve strength and neuromuscular health and improve independence in individuals with cervical SCI, but most existing technology aims at restoring arm, not hand function, despite data showing restoration of hand function has tremendous implications for improving quality of life. A new user-friendly powered handgrip device that is easy to put on and take off will support wearers in performing activities of daily living and enhance their quality of life.