iShoe helps the elderly by providing balance feedback
- July 31st, 2008
- 2 Comments
As much as I want to give a knee-jerk snarky treatment to something called the iShoe, I just can’t. The iShoe is designed to help determine how well the wearer is balancing by sensing pressure variations over time. The sensor and corresponding software is being developed to help the elderly catch early warning signs of failing balance. The information is recorded and then that data should be able to help a doctor determine their patient’s needs.
As funny as people falling down can be, old people falling down isn’t as much fun. The numbers ain’t good, with an estimated 300,000 annual hip fractures. No fun for anybody.
The iShoe (grrr) is being developed by Erez Lieberman who got the idea while interning at NASA. When astronauts return from zero gravity, they need time to readjust their balance. Lo and behold, the iShoe (Grrr) was born.
Lieberman and his research partner, Katharine Forth, are still conducting tests to determine if the iShoe (GRRR) will be able to withstand the constant pounding that it would surely take. I sincerely wish them good luck as they try to help an age-old problem for the elderly. But, just as much so, please, please do not call that thing an iShoe if it ever comes to market. (Ahhh).
Lawrence Rowley (Who am I?)
3 months ago
I have severe balance problems. Heres how. I have peripheral neuropathy in both feet and to a lesser extent, in my calves.
The result of poorly managed diabetes.I am age 82
PN means that the fine nerves in the feet are dead. Balance gets substantial data from the feet.
It’s great to learn that sensing foot pressure is being developed, now we need a feed-back to the balance control system to be able to use the data to help control balance. Difficult.
If I can be of help email me
London, Ontario, Canada.
margaret bulmer (Who am I?)
3 months ago
recently i fell while dancing, broke my wrist & had surgery to repair my humpty-dumpty break which is now mending.
i would willingly try out iShoe for research & i want my doctor to learn about iShoe. for seniors as well as for others with a balance challenge, this is a most welcome unintended consequence of our space program technology.
rhode island, usa