Challenge
Shoulder instability occurs when the head of the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket, resulting in a loss of functionality and pain. This condition is experienced by patients with either musculoskeletal or neurological disorders, and up to 80% of the patients with stroke complications suffer from shoulder instability due to arm impairment. Consequently, these patients require several months of joint immobilization, costly dependent care, and experience a delayed return to work.
Opportunity
Management of shoulder instability typically involves braces and slings that that hold the shoulder in the appropriate position to prevent further complications. A significant limitation of existing braces is that they limit range of motion and do not facilitate motor recovery. Therefore, current solutions tend to constrain daily activity, reduce the recovery potential and independence of the patients.
Solution
Liftya is a patented ‘spherical hinge mechanism’, which replicates the behaviour of the shoulder joint by keeping the glenohumeral position. This design provides great stability and full range of motion, whilst reducing pain to patients and costs to the whole healthcare system.
Status
The technology is protected by an international patent. The company is filing for CE mark documentation and planning to get approval by Q1 2024. The team aims to capture anatomical fast data and deliver 3D quick production. Advanced kinematics analysis will be done in collaboration with University of Politecnico of Torino and Aalborg University, both renowned bioengineering departments, starting in November 2023. Clinical trials at both ortho and neuro rehabilitation centres will commence in Q3 2024.