Desenvolvimento de dispositivo de monitoramento em tempo real para reabilitação postural

Abstract

Postural balance rehabilitation aims to evaluate and correct functional and structural problems of the spine caused by the incidence of dysfunctions in the habit of sitting, genetic problems and, in more severe cases, spinal cord injuries. One of the objectives of postural rehabilitation is to promote muscular balance, biomechanics of the trunk and the distribution of body weight at the support points. In this sense, the objective of this work was to develop a mechanical and instrumented device, mounted on the base of a physiotherapy bench with real-time monitoring of the pressure distribution on the seat and the inclination of the center of mass by means of sensors, to then map the center of pressure (COP) aiding in the evaluation of patients with such postural dysfunctions. The data are collected by a set of load cells that receive the values of the forces applied to the base of the bench and by an inclination sensor that detects the angular variation. These data are collected by an embedded electronic system that uses an algorithm implemented on an electronic development board to condition the received signals and sends them remotely through a serial port or appropriate communication protocol. The evolution of movements in the device is graphically displayed on a human-machine interface. In this way, the professional operator of the platform can evaluate the intervention points in the patient’s posture and regulate exercises to strengthen the region, as well as adjust the weight distribution on the bench, contributing to a more appropriate posture. This project offers an innovative approach to rehabilitation, combining physical rehabilitation principles with instrumental technology, proving to be a promising tool for improving the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs and the quality of life of patients in the recovery process, paving the way for future applications and improvements in this area.