Joint injuries are a common issue for active individuals, with around 25,000 ankle sprains occurring daily and 25% of Americans regularly experiencing knee pain. However, physical therapy can be costly and time-consuming, while online rehab solutions often lack precision.
To address this, researchers Omer Inan and Mabrouk have developed Arthroba, a wearable, battery-powered device designed to monitor joint health and provide personalized strengthening exercises. Using electrical sensors, Arthroba tracks swelling and tissue damage in key joints like the knee and ankle.
The device relies on bioimpedance analysis, a method that measures how electrical currents move through the body. When joint tissue changes due to swelling or injury, the electrical flow is altered. Arthroba’s four dry electrodes detect these changes, allowing for precise assessment and tailored recovery exercises.
Arthroba’s innovative design includes an inertial measurement unit that tracks acceleration, rotation, and velocity of the joint, further enhancing insights into joint movement and health. This data is sent via Bluetooth to a mobile app powered by AI, offering personalized exercise recommendations.
Medical professionals can also access this data to optimize treatment plans. By monitoring fluid balance and tissue composition, Arthroba aims to reduce injury risks, improve rehab outcomes, and even support preventive care.
Developed with support from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and the National Institutes of Health, Arthroba is already being tested with athletes and arthritis patients. With multiple patents in place, the team envisions Arthroba becoming a mainstream solution for everyday users — much like a smartwatch for joint health.
Article written by Tess Malone
07/01/2025
Source:
Georgia Tech