Developing new sensors and computer systems for the tele-rehabilitation and remote evaluation of the rehabilitation process of patients with neurological diseases

Rehabilitation is a significant part of overall disease management. Neurological diseases and related disorders are responsible for a large fraction of temporary and permanent disabilities in Italy and Europe. The benefits of therapeutic exercise and daily physical activity are known and play a fundamental role in the recovery of patients with neurological diseases. To date, clinical scales are relatively unspecific and are not sensitive enough to monitor and to detect the subtle and small changes or progress of the disease. The progression of neuromuscular diseases affects the musculoskeletal system (structure, mechanical and contractile properties). In hereditary neuropathies like Charcot-Marie-tooth (CMT) disease enduring changes in the muscle and tendon structure may occur. Similarly, patients in the post-stroke phase, although affected by selective damage of the Central Nerve System (CNS), may undergo comparable muscular and tendon changes, which then need special attention and rehabilitative protocols to prevent irreversible deformities. In the last years, many systems are available to help the patients in exercising. Therefore, in this project we have evaluated the sensors and robotic rehabilitation approach to address novel evaluation and rehabilitation systems, by the application of ICT and specific, innovative sensors. The aims of the project are 1. Evaluation and effectiveness testing of different tools (sensors and devices either available on the market or developed by our research team) 2. Support of the patients in their care process and assistance of the health professionals to control the rehabilitation process and disease progression. Through the system developed in these two pints, we aim to: I. Monitor the rehabilitation and the evolution of recovery; II. Develop new technologies and applications for specific activities in clinical evaluation, therapy and rehabilitation (following acute neurological disease and during a post-acute phase). After this phase, in future, we will transfer these activities from the hospital to the patient's home, to promote recovery within the patient's environment, making these activities more relevant to their everyday lives. We mainly focus on post-acute stroke survivors and persons with hereditary peripheral neuropathies and muscle disorders, e.g., Charcot-Marie-tooth disease. There is a strong need for close monitoring and long-lasting rehabilitative treatment of these patients.