Recovering from a debilitating stroke can be a tough and challenging process, with patients needing to spend countless hours re-learning basic motor skills. Traditionally, occupational therapists have helped the patient with his exercises, but with Singapore's manpower crunch there is an increasing need to automate this process. That is where NeuroStyle comes in. The local start-up is developing a promising product to help patients with their rehabilitation at home.
"The technique relies on virtual technology," said Dr Johnson Lu, director of NeuroStyle. "We hope to start production in the middle of next year."
The system will involve sensors being placed on the patient's head to record his brain waves. An image on a screen would guide the patient on his motor skill exercises - and would let him know if he is doing them right, based on his brain wave readings.
A caregiver at home can put the sensors on the patient's head, after receiving training from a medical staff member or a therapist. The patient and the caregiver will also be trained on how to properly use the machine, and to do the exercises. With the feedback, Dr Lu, 47, expects the patients will do their exercises better and recover faster.
The system is expected to cost $2,000 to $3,000 per unit, said Dr Lu, adding that it would be affordable for most stroke patients. The first prototypes should be available later this year. NeuroStyle has had some support from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star).
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